A royal historian has called for the removal of Prince Harry as a councillor of state, emphasizing that her stance is unrelated to the ongoing rift between the Duke and the royal family.
The Duke of Sussex’s role has garnered attention in light of recent health developments within the royal circle, such as King Charles‘s cancer diagnosis and Princess Kate’s hospitalization for abdominal surgery last month.
The state of the royal family, which has seen a reduction in active members, has sparked discussions among senior royals outside of their official duties.
Notably, Prince William, the Princess of Wales’ husband, has adjusted his schedule to provide full support to his family, as they navigate their responsibilities.
Per legal protocols, each monarch appoints state advisers to act on their behalf in cases of illness or overseas travel.
State advisers consist of the king’s spouse and the next four individuals in the line of succession who are above 21 years old.
Currently, these individuals are Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, and Princess Beatrice.
In a recent proposal put forth by King Charles, it was suggested that his siblings, Princess Anne and Prince Edward, be appointed as additional councillors of state by late 2022.
While the monarch remains optimistic about his recovery and eventual return to full public service, there are plans to reduce his public engagements temporarily.
Despite not yet enlisting any advisers, it is anticipated that senior members of the royal household will step up to assist with general duties during this period.
However, royal historian Marilyn Coyke contends that Prince Harry should be relieved of his councillor position due to residency concerns.
Coyke argued that the requirement for state councillors to be based in the UK poses a challenge for Harry, who no longer resides in the country following the loss of his lease on Frogmore Cottage.
The historian highlighted that only active royal family members are eligible to serve as councillors of state, as evidenced by Charles’s request for special legislation to include Anne and Edward in this role for life.
Moreover, Coyke pointed out that inactive members like Harry, Andrew, and Beatrice are unlikely to be called upon for official duties.
Should Prince Harry be removed, Princess Eugenie would step in as a state councillor, according to Coyke’s analysis.
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