In a subtle and strategic move, King Charles has discreetly bestowed Princess Anne and Prince Edward with added responsibilities, recent reports reveal.
The Princess Royal and the Duke of Edinburgh are expected to see an uptick in their roles in the near future.
This development stems from the Counsellors of State Act 2022, where the 75-year-old monarch included Princess Anne and Prince Edward in the select group authorized to act on his behalf during periods of illness or when he is away.
Notably, this decision sidestepped Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, and Princess Beatrice from assuming such roles, as insiders suggest.
During the second reading of the Bill in the Lords, Lord True, the leader of the Lords, disclosed that only actively working members of the royal family will be called upon to serve as Counsellors of State.
Therefore, despite being listed, the Duke of Sussex, the Duke of York, and the Princess of York cannot be summoned to deputize for the King.
Traditionally, Counsellors of State comprise the monarch’s spouse and the following four eligible adults in line to the throne over the age of 21, excluding the heir apparent who can step in from the age of 18.
The current roster of individuals eligible to act as Counsellors of State includes the Queen, Prince William, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, Princess Beatrice, alongside the newly appointed Princess Anne and Prince Edward.
Notably, King Charles has introduced a unique provision ensuring that Anne and Edward will retain their roles for life, unlike Harry, Andrew, and Beatrice, who will eventually be succeeded by Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis as they mature.
In light of recent health concerns, King Charles is anticipated to lean more heavily on Princess Anne and Prince Edward moving forward.
The monarch’s disclosure regarding an upcoming treatment for an enlarged prostate hints at a heightened workload for the Duke of Edinburgh and the Princess Royal in the coming weeks.
Dr. Craig Prescott, a constitutional law lecturer at Royal Holloway, University of London, noted that specifying only working royals as potential Counsellors of State was a tactful way to navigate the situation without stirring controversy, particularly concerning Harry.
The Palace has affirmed that there will be no need to appoint Counsellors of State for the King’s forthcoming hospital procedure next week.
This decision underscores the trust placed in Princess Anne and Prince Edward to fulfill their designated roles effectively.
As developments unfold within the royal family, the dynamics and responsibilities among its members continue to evolve.
Share your thoughts on these recent changes in the comments section and stay tuned for further updates.