Close companions of Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have expressed their disappointment, though not surprise, at not being called upon to fulfill any royal duties amidst the ongoing health crisis within the royal family.
As King Charles, Prince William, and Kate Middleton take a step back from their royal responsibilities, friends of the two princesses feel it is unfair that their willingness to serve has not been acknowledged.
They firmly believe that their father, Prince Andrew’s return to royal circles should not cast a shadow on them, as they have committed no wrongdoing.
Despite feeling disheartened, they have come to terms with this decision with a sense of resignation.
A reliable source close to the wider royal family admits that while Charles harbors a fondness for the York sisters, it is widely recognized that there is no place for them as full-time working royals.
Moreover, the late Queen Elizabeth unequivocally stated that being a part-time working royal is not an option.
Reflecting on the current scenario where Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince Edward, and his wife Sophie are the primary official representatives of the monarchy, a former courtier points out that excluding the two younger royals could potentially be viewed as a misstep in hindsight.
Both Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have successfully established themselves as private individuals.
In a previous interview with the Daily Beast, Robert Hardman, a respected biographer of the king, echoed similar sentiments regarding the potential reintroduction of the princesses into the public eye.
He emphasized that there is little desire for such a move as it may lead to confusion and contradict ongoing efforts to streamline operations.
Despite the king’s deep affection for his nieces, they are regarded as private individuals.
Noteworthy is the fact that Princess Beatrice and her family have resided in a four-bedroom apartment at St. James Palace since her marriage to Edoardo Mapelli-Mozzi in 2020.
Similarly, Princess Eugenie frequents her sister’s St. James apartment during her UK visits, although her primary residence is a luxurious golf and ocean club in Portugal.
Speculation arises regarding the potential implications of permanent sidelining of Charles and Kate due to health challenges, leading to a shortage of manpower for a possible Prince William Regency.
This was evident when a visibly frail Charles had to deliver a message for the Monty Thursday service via a recorded audio clip, with Camilla attending in person on his behalf.
Looking ahead, Princess Anne may contemplate retirement or a reduced schedule, given her extensive engagements in 2023 and the projected busier year ahead.
The issue of royal staffing looms large, especially considering the Walises’ reluctance to have their children assume full-time royal duties until they reach their mid-twenties, with Prince George being only 10 years old presently.
Amidst occasional suggestions by associates of the Yorks proposing the reintegration of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson’s daughters into the royal fold on a part-time basis, it is worth noting that the princesses were held in high regard by Queen Elizabeth.
As the only blood princesses of their generation, some argue they deserve all privileges due to them.
Notably, even Kate Middleton, when a Duchess, was expected to curtsy to them upon meeting, highlighting the intricate dynamics within the royal family.