The King, Queen Consort and their private secretary Sir Clive Alderton (centre) during a visit to the BundestagThe King’s right-hand man Sir Clive Alderton has announced he will step down from his role 20 years after first joining the Royal Household. Sir Clive, the King and Queen’s principal private secretary, will leave his role next year – coinciding with his 60th birthday in May – but will continue supporting the royal couple in a “less formal capacity”. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “I know Their Majesties are deeply grateful to Sir Clive for his tireless support and wise counsel over the years, and for the enduring loyalty that will ensure a smooth transition to his successor.” The King and Sir Clive Alderton arriving for the King’s Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace in 2024. He was promoted three years later to their private secretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs.