The future of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s titles is set to be a key topic of discussion at the Royal Family’s annual summit at Balmoral Castle, according to insider reports. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who will not be attending the gathering due to their ongoing tour of Colombia, are reportedly in the spotlight as the royal decision-makers plan for the years ahead.
Balmoral Castle, a historic residence in Aberdeenshire, is known for hosting the royal family’s summer retreats. However, this year’s gathering is expected to be more than just a vacation. Insiders have revealed that the meeting will involve “crunch talks” on various issues, with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s future within the family reportedly high on the agenda.
Titles and Peerages Under Scrutiny
One of the most significant topics to be addressed is the status of Harry and Meghan’s titles and peerages. The source indicated that the summit, attended by King Charles III and Prince William, who is often considered a “shot-caller” within the family, will closely examine the Sussexes’ titles.
The discussion will reportedly include not only the couple’s current and upcoming engagements, such as their recent tour in Colombia and a planned trip to Canada, but also the potential revocation of their titles. The source warned that any move to strip the Sussexes of their titles could lead to “a lot of unnecessary problems,” suggesting that the decision is a delicate one.
Potential Outcomes and Legal Hurdles
Prince Harry currently holds the titles of Duke of Sussex, Earl of Dumbarton in Scotland, and Baron Kilkeel in Northern Ireland, while Meghan is styled as the Duchess of Sussex, Countess of Dumbarton, and Baroness Kilkeel. Although Harry’s title as a prince and his “HRH” status were granted by the sovereign and could be rescinded relatively easily, revoking his peerages would require an Act of Parliament.
The insider also noted that the Sussexes’ children, Archie and Lilibet, could be affected by any decision to strip their parents of their titles. Discussions around this sensitive matter have been ongoing, but no final decisions have been made. The source expressed hope that a resolution would be reached during the summer talks between King Charles and other senior royals.
A Turning Point for the Royal Family
This year’s Balmoral summit is seen as a pivotal moment for the Royal Family as they navigate their future without the active participation of the Sussexes. Last year’s gathering focused on honoring Queen Elizabeth II, following her passing, and this year’s meeting is expected to be more forward-looking, with an emphasis on how the family can best move on without Harry and Meghan.
The outcome of these discussions could have lasting implications for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and their role, or lack thereof, within the royal family. As the royal family seeks to solidify its future, the decisions made at Balmoral could mark a significant turning point in the ongoing saga of the Sussexes and their relationship with the British monarchy.