Politics

Incoming governor general Julie Payette meets the Queen

Julie Payette, the retired astronaut who will become Canada's governor general on Oct. 2, has had her first audience with the Queen.

Payette officially takes over from David Johnston on Oct. 2

Julie Payette, left, meets Queen Elizabeth during a private audience at Balmoral Castle, Scotland, on Wednesday. Payette replaces Gov. Gen. David Johnston on Oct. 2. (The Associated Press)

Canada's incoming governor general has had her first audience with the Queen.

The Governor General's office says Julie Payette met with Queen Elizabeth at Balmoral Castle, her summer home in Scotland.

The Queen has bestowed several orders on Payette, including an Extraordinary Companion of the Order of Canada

The retired Canadian astronaut is scheduled to meet with Prince Charles later Wednesday.

She will officially replace Gov. Gen. David Johnston on Oct. 2.