Following the recent passing of the Queen, a shift in royal protocol has led to Princess Anne now curtsying to Kate Middleton and entering rooms after her.
This change is attributed to Catherine’s new status as the Princess of Wales, placing her higher in the order of precedence within the UK monarchy.
According to the protocol, seniority determines the manner in which individuals enter a room and greet each other, often involving a curtsy or bow.
The adjustment in protocol was notably observed during the first joint engagement between Kate Middleton and Princess Anne on April 22.
The duo visited the London headquarters of the Royal College of Midwives and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
During this royal event, Kate Middleton, then known as the Duchess of Cambridge, adhered to protocol by following behind the Princess Royal.
At one point, she even stepped back to allow Anne to enter a room before her.
Royal correspondent Richard Palmer, speaking on the Daily Express Royal Roundup, explained that the order of precedence came into effect due to Anne being a princess by blood while Kate was unaccompanied by her husband.
In instances where William is not present, Anne is considered the more senior royal based on the order of precedence in place.
As per the current order of precedence, Camilla holds the highest position as the wife of the sovereign.
Consequently, all female members of the royal family are required to curtsy to her and enter events or rooms after her, irrespective of King Charles‘s presence.
Camilla’s status as queen consort establishes her as the most senior figure in the royal family hierarchy.
Exceptions to the standard protocol occur at events like state banquets, where seniority dictates that the most prominent members of the family enter first rather than last.
This dynamic results in situations where Camilla precedes Catherine or Anne into rooms.
Notably, Princess Anne now occupies the seventh position among royal women, disregarding the traditional seniority associated with being a blood princess.
The evolution of royal protocol also signifies a departure from previous customs, such as the requirement for the Princess of Wales and the Queen Consort to bow to the princess royal.
This shift underscores the changing dynamics within the royal family hierarchy, emphasizing adherence to the established order of precedence.
In light of these developments, it is evident that the royal family is navigating a period of transition and adaptation following significant changes in hierarchy and protocol.
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