The Privy Council is a formal body of advisers to the British monarch. It consists of senior politicians, mostly from the House of Lords and the House of Commons, who provide guidance on important matters of state. Historically, it played a significant role in governance, but its influence has diminished over time. Today, the Privy Council mainly functions as a judicial body, hearing appeals from certain courts in Commonwealth countries. It also oversees the issuance of royal charters and other official documents. Its decisions can impact various legal and administrative matters within the realms it serves.