Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, may face the loss of a significant role within the monarchy due to a decision made by King Charles III. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams revealed that as a consequence, Harry will no longer be able to serve as a counsellor of state.
This development follows the earlier eviction of Harry and his wife Meghan Markle from Frogmore Cottage by the king. The couple had already lost their London base at Kensington Palace in 2020 after their decision to step back from their senior royal duties, known as “Megxit.” As a result, the Sussex family currently lacks an official royal residence in the United Kingdom.
Implications for Harry’s Role:
A counsellor of state is a senior royal who can act on behalf of the monarch when they are out of the country or incapacitated. Traditionally, the monarch’s spouse and the first four individuals in the line of succession who are over 21 and reside in the United Kingdom are eligible for this role.
At present, Prince Charles, Prince William, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, and Princess Beatrice meet the criteria. However, the king has instructed his government to include Prince Edward and Princess Anne in 2022.
Fitzwilliams noted that losing the right to be a counsellor of state is significant for Harry, despite him no longer being a working royal. The absence of a UK residence has resulted in the forfeiture of this opportunity, emphasizing the impact of his choice to reside outside the country.
Potential Impact on William’s Reign:
The repercussions of Harry’s situation may extend to the future reign of Prince William if his brother continues to lack a home in Great Britain. Fitzwilliams explained that if Harry does not have a UK residence when William ascends to the throne, he will be unable to support his brother in an official capacity. However, the expert added that Harry does not fulfill this role presently.