About the Lord Lieutenant
The Queen's representative in East Sussex
The Lord Lieutenant is appointed by The Queen to act on her behalf in East Sussex. The title originated in the reign of Henry VIII, and originally had a military function. As there was no full-time army, the Lord Lieutenant was charged with calling men of the county to arms when the need arose. The role of Lord Lieutenant is now non-political and unpaid.
Mr Peter Field became Lord Lieutenant for East Sussex in August 2008, and holds this office until 2021.
Royal duties
The Lord Lieutenant's duties include:
- representing Her Majesty The Queen within East Sussex
- arranging royal visits to the county and escorting royal visitors when appropriate
- participating in civic and social activities including direct and indirect support to a wide range of groups, benevolent organisations, industry and local businesses
- liaising with local armed forces units
- the submission of honours nominations
- the submission of royal garden party nominations
- presenting honours and awards on behalf of Her Majesty.
Keeper of the Rolls (Custos Rotulorum)
As well as representing The Queen, the East Sussex Lord Lieutenant has agreed to hold the post of Keeper of the Rolls for the Lord Chancellor and Lord Chief Justice. This post dates back to the 15th century. The rolls were the records of the Court of Quarter Sessions, an administrative as well as judicial body.
Contact details
If you would like to get in touch with the Lord Lieutenant or have any questions about protocol when you meet the Lord Lieutenant, please contact the Lieutenancy Office.
