A royal expert has indicated that the decision by the Duke of Sussex to reside in the United States symbolizes a significant detachment from the British royal establishment, signifying a notable shift away from his traditional obligations within the royal family.
Following their withdrawal from active royal duties, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex relocated to Montecito, California in January 2020, initially as a temporary arrangement that has since evolved into a more permanent situation due to recent developments.
The impact of this relocation on the broader spectrum of royal responsibilities was emphasized by royal specialist Tom Quinn during an interview with the Mirror.
He elaborated on how the move to Kensington Palace carries profound implications.
Despite being fifth-in-line to the throne and a member of the royal lineage, the Duke of Sussex is no longer in a position to serve as a councillor of state, a role that involves executing official duties on behalf of the monarch in case of their incapacity.
In a surprising disclosure, the Duke of Sussex’s sustainable travel enterprise, Travelist, officially listed the United States as his primary place of residence.
The decision to formally vacate Frogmore Cottage, their former royal residence, on June 29, 2023, shed light on a significant transition that had been unfolding.
In 2022, a formal declaration was made to Parliament by the Crown, stipulating that only active members of the royal family are eligible to step in for the monarch, as noted by Quinn.
Expressing his sentiments, the Duke of Sussex indicated that if Britain no longer desires his presence, he reciprocates the sentiment by choosing to distance himself from the country.
This assertion aligns with previous revelations made earlier this year, where it was subtly communicated that individuals like the Duke and his uncle, Prince Andrew, who have disengaged from official royal duties, will not be called upon to fulfill ceremonial roles as councillors of state.
Further solidifying the Duke’s departure from his formal royal obligations was the appointment of Princess Anne and Prince Edward as life councillors of state, positioning them as potential substitutes for the King during public events in case of his unavailability.
This development underscores the evolving landscape within the royal family, where active participation is now a prerequisite for assuming key ceremonial roles, as per legislation enacted in December 2022.
The ongoing narrative surrounding the Duke of Sussex’s relocation and its ramifications on his royal status continues to draw attention and speculation.