Prince William Takes Part in Unique New Role on Behalf of Queen Elizabeth During Scotland Royal Tour People 2 hrs ago Prince William is taking on a new role. On Saturday, he stepped out as Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. It is the first time he has carried out the role — appointed by his grandmother Queen Elizabeth. The ceremonial opening kicked off several days of meetings and discussions and William, titled the Earl of Strathearn in Scotland, will also be at the closing ceremony. "Her Majesty The Queen has asked me to come here in person to reassure you of Her pledge to preserve and uphold the rights and privileges of the Church of Scotland," he said at the start of a lengthy speech, noting that "one day, it will be my responsibility to swear my own oath to maintain and preserve the security and independence of the Church of Scotland."