Prince William Faces Challenges in Revoking Meghan Markle’s Royal Title, Experts Say

Prince William Faces Challenges in Revoking Meghan Markle’s Royal Title, Experts Say

Prince William appears to be considering how to approach the possibility of removing royal titles from his brother Prince Harry and sister-in-law Meghan Markle. Recent discussions have highlighted the complications surrounding this issue.

Kinsey Schofield, host of the To Di For Daily podcast, recently claimed to Fox News Digital that she was the first to report insights about Prince William’s intentions before multiple outlets picked it up. Fox News Digital has reached out to Kensington Palace, which represents the office of the Prince of Wales, for clarification. Thus far, the palace has not confirmed or denied these claims.

“I knew Prince William wanted to strip them of their titles weeks ago,” Schofield shared with Fox News Digital.

Experts suggest that Prince William’s approach may differ from that of King Charles. While Charles has maintained a more tolerant attitude toward Harry and Meghan, William’s stance seems more confrontational. Schofield elaborated, stating that Prince William perceives Harry and Meghan as exploiting their association with the royal family while jeopardizing the monarchy’s future.

Current Status of Meghan and Harry’s Titles

Meghan Markle was awarded the title of Duchess of Sussex by Queen Elizabeth II on her wedding day to Prince Harry in 2018. However, the couple stepped back from their roles as senior royals in 2020, citing intense scrutiny from the media and a lack of support from the royal institution.

This shift has led to the term “Megxit” becoming commonplace in discussions about their departure. The couple’s grievances have been expressed through interviews, documentaries, and Harry’s memoir, Spare.

Despite no longer performing royal duties, reports highlight that they still retain the style of “His/Her Royal Highness.” However, using this title for public or commercial purposes is prohibited. Recent controversies erupted after a personalized note featuring Meghan’s HRH title surfaced, raising eyebrows about her compliance with royal protocols.

Schofield noted that Meghan’s continued use of her HRH title does not sit well with William. She suggested that this behavior contradicts the Sandringham Agreement established prior to their exit.

Legislative Hurdles in Title Removal

Experts such as British royal commentator Hilary Fordwich have stressed that removing a royal title requires legislative action, meaning that Prince William cannot single-handedly strip the couple of their titles once he ascends to the throne. Nevertheless, Fordwich mentioned that he wishes to send a strong message to Harry and Meghan regarding their conduct.

In the past, King Charles has exhibited a desire for some form of reconciliation, given his upbringing in a closely-knit family. Yet, William reportedly feels personally let down by Harry, especially in light of the public details shared about their shared upbringing.

Former royal courtiers have expressed that William is determined to see Harry and Meghan lose their HRH titles due to what they view as blatant breaches of royal protocol and agreements. This dissatisfaction stems largely from their public disclosures about private family matters and experiences.

Legislative Changes on the Horizon?

Recent discussions have emerged surrounding the potential for new legislation that would empower either the monarch or a parliamentary committee to revoke royal titles. In 2022, a bill aimed at granting the monarch the authority to remove titles based on personal initiative or upon recommendation from Parliament was introduced, although it has yet to become law.

In 2023, Bob Seely, a Conservative MP at the time, put forth intentions to propose a bill that would strip Harry and Meghan of their royal titles. He emphasized that while he is not opposed to the monarchy, he believes that individuals who choose to distance themselves from royal duties should not retain their titles if they publicly criticize the royal family.

Public Sentiment and Support for William

Fordwich mentioned that William would receive substantial public support in his pursuit to revoke Harry and Meghan’s titles. Given various public opinion polls conducted over the years, it’s evident that a significant portion of the populace shares his view.

Prince William aims to uphold the traditions and integrity of the royal family, viewing Meghan’s commercial exploitation of the HRH title as disrespectful to Queen Elizabeth II, who bestowed these titles as hereditary honors. Although current laws have not enacted changes, discussions regarding the potential for easier revocation processes have been ongoing.

The Legal Perspective on Title Removal

Legal experts like Graham Zellick highlight that the HRH title would be the most straightforward title for a monarch to rescind. Presently, the Sussexes have agreed not to utilize the HRH appellation while living abroad and not undertaking royal duties. Zellick suggests that the monarchy could remove this title based on their decision to step away from being working members of the royal family.

The ongoing situation continues to unfold as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex reside in California with their two children. As debates about royal titles and responsibilities persist, it remains to be seen how this family saga will evolve.

A Family Saga with Implications

The dynamics within the royal family serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining tradition while navigating modern realities. As Prince William contemplates potential actions regarding Harry and Meghan’s titles, the intersection of personal feelings, public opinion, and formal protocols creates a captivating narrative that embodies the challenges of royal life today.