The Privy Council is a formal body of advisers to the sovereign in the United Kingdom. It consists of senior politicians, mostly from the House of Lords and House of Commons, and is responsible for advising the monarch on various matters, including legislation and governance. The council also has judicial functions, particularly in its role as the highest court of appeal for certain countries and territories within the British Commonwealth. Historically, the Privy Council has played a significant role in the administration of the British Empire. Today, its functions are largely ceremonial, with most of its powers delegated to the Cabinet and other government bodies. However, it still meets regularly to discuss important issues and make decisions on matters of state.