Will Meghan Markle's Children Hold Royal Titles?
The recent announcement that Meghan Markle's children would be given new titles, such as Lord and Countess of Dumbarton, has sparked much debate and confusion regarding their future royal status. According to the current laws and the actions of their parents, it is unlikely that they will be granted the titles of HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) and the corresponding titles of Prince or Princess.
Current Legislation and Future Possibilities
Under the British Royal Titles Act 1972, the children of any Sovereign of the United Kingdom and the children of the sons of any such Sovereign, as well as the eldest living son of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales, are entitled to the style and title of Royal Highness and the corresponding titles of Prince or Princess. This has been demonstrated with previous examples such as Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, whose titles were granted at the discretion of their father, Prince Andrew.
The situation with Meghan Markle's children is more complex. While they are technically British royals, the decision to use the titles HRH and the corresponding Princess or Prince titles depends on their parents, specifically Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. As of now, it is unclear if they will be granted these titles, especially given the ongoing challenges within the royal family.
The Role of the King and Current Arrangements
King Charles III may have the ability to alter the laws or issue new letters patent to exclude both Prince Harry and his children from royal titles. This is a possibility mentioned by some legal experts, although it remains speculative. For example, he could extend this exclusion to Harry himself, making his children's royal status purely honorary without the formal titles.
So, while the children of the current sovereigns and their direct male descendants within the male line are entitled to these titles, there is significant uncertainty surrounding King Charles's children and their potential royal titles. The ultimate decision lies with the monarch and their advisors, who may consider the best interests of the monarchy and royal family as a whole.
Parents' Decisions and Public Perception
It is worth noting that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have made public statements about their desire to step back from their royal duties, hinting at their potential decision not to use the formal titles for their children. Public opinion and the ongoing scrutiny of their relationship have also influenced discussions around their children's royal status. Meghan Markle's personal image, as described by some individuals, including her critics, further complicates the narrative surrounding this topic.
The situation is not straightforward and is subject to change based on future actions and decisions made by the royal family, particularly King Charles III and his government. As new legal or royal policy is introduced, the status of the children of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry may evolve.
Therefore, while the current laws suggest that Meghan Markle's children could hold royal titles, the practical application of these laws and the desire of their parents to downplay their royal status may lead to a different outcome. The future of their royal titles remains uncertain and will depend on the ongoing decisions of the royal family.