Former butler of Princess Diana, Paul Burrell, has dismissed claims that Zara and Mike Tindall are suitable candidates for senior royal roles.
Burrell suggested that Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice would be better suited for such positions.
In recent times, the thinning ranks of the British royal family have become a topic of discussion, particularly due to health issues faced by King Charles and Princess Kate, leaving only a few members available for official engagements.
Zara and Mike Tindall faced harsh criticism from the former royal butler, who questioned their suitability for senior royal roles.
With the recent health concerns surrounding King Charles and Princess Kate, the availability of royals to fulfill official duties has become a concern.
However, Burrell, speaking on behalf of Slingo, denied any claims regarding Princess Anne’s daughter and her husband stepping up to support the king.
Instead, he proposed that Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice could take on those responsibilities.
“I don’t see Zara and Mike Tindall as the right candidates to step up to the plate, but I can see Eugenie and Beatrice doing charity work and supporting roles,” explained Burrell, emphasizing his belief that Princess Anne is the best queen the royal family has ever had.
He commended her outstanding work ethic and described her as a tremendous asset to the monarchy.
Recent health issues have affected both King Charles and Princess Kate.
The king underwent surgery for an enlarged prostate, while Princess Kate remained in the hospital for almost two weeks following planned abdominal surgery.
Prince William, her husband, cleared his schedule to provide full support during her recovery.
These health concerns have raised questions about who would assume leadership if either the king or Prince William were unable to do so.
In such circumstances, state advisers are appointed by the monarch to represent them or fulfill their duties in case of illness or absence abroad.
State advisers consist of the king’s spouse and the next four individuals in the line of succession who are over 21 years old.
Currently, these advisers include Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, and Princess Beatrice.
Charles has proposed appointing his siblings, Princess Anne and Prince Edward, as additional councillors of state in late 2022.