Will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Lose Their Titles?

The question of whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will lose their royal titles has been a topic of ongoing debate and discussion. While some individuals advocate for the stripping of their titles, numerous factors and legal requirements make this scenario highly unlikely.

Is It in Train?

There have been several discussions and even actions suggested by certain individuals to remove the titles of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Some claim that these titles should be stripped, especially the "duchess" title, suggesting they be referred to as Mr and Mrs Harry Markle instead. However, it's important to understand the complexities and legalities surrounding such an action.

Can They Lose Their Titles?

It is currently clear that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will not lose their titles based on the existing legal framework and the rights they possess as members of the British royal family.

Parliamentary Action Required

For any titles to be removed, there must be a legal act of parliament. While a few Members of Parliament (MPs) have proposed bills to allow the King to remove the titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex without parliamentary approval, such proposals have not gained traction. The King, known as King Charles III, would have no say in the matter as he is not explicitly given this power by the current legal framework.

Why Can't They Lose Their Titles?

The reasons for not removing their titles are multifaceted. Firstly, the titles are protected by law, which would require a specific act of parliament to change them. Additionally, the King, as the reigning monarch, would not have the authority to strip these titles unilaterally.

Behaving Like a Royal Prince

There are concerns voiced that Prince Harry should behave more like a conventional royal prince. However, much like the case with Prince Charles and Princess Diana, the titles remain a matter of respect and tradition. Even if the Duke and Duchess were to exhibit behaviors deemed inappropriate by some, the removal of their titles would be seen as overreaching and potentially petty.

Looking at Historical Precedents

The removal of titles in the modern era is a rare occurrence. Notably, Prince George, Duke of Kent, had his titles removed in 1938 due to his political beliefs. However, such actions require clear justification and are subject to public scrutiny and parliamentary debate.

Why Not Strip Their Titles?

Stripping the titles of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle would be considered a petty and punitive action by many. It would also be seen as an unfair and discriminatory move, potentially labeled as looking appallingly racist. The couple is widely known and recognized by the public as Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and changing these titles would have minimal impact on their public persona and recognition.

Options for a New Title

Several suggestions have been made for a new title for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. For example, they could be given a new title, though this too would require a formal process through parliament.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the removal of the titles of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle would require a significant and legally complex process. While it is theoretically possible, it is unlikely to happen due to the constitutional and legal constraints, as well as the historical and cultural significance of their titles.

For now, they will continue to be known as Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, with their duchy titles protected by law. The establishment, including influential public figures like Dickie Arbiter, advocates for maintaining the respect and tradition associated with their titles.