Prince Charles of Wales’ actions go against Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip’s wishes.
What We Know:
- The issue dates back to 1999 when Buckingham Palace declared Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Phillip, the Duke of Edinburgh, wanted their son Edward, Earl of Wessex, to take Phillip’s title “in due course”. The couple made this declaration when Edward married Sophie Rys-Jones and was granted earldom. However, after Phillip’s death, the title went directly to their eldest son, Charles, to keep with royal tradition.
- When Queen Elizabeth II passes away, Charles will ascend the throne. Since Charles currently possesses the title of Duke of Edinburgh, it will merge with the crown. This means that Charles may then decide if he wants to pass the title on to Edward. The Sunday Times reported that Charles may rebel against what the Queen wants while he reassesses his future. A source close to Charles told the newspaper that he does not intend on passing the title down to his youngest brother. Another source defended this statement, adding that “Edinburgh won’t go to [the Wessexes] as far as the prince is concerned.”
- Despite this report, the Royal Family currently denies these claims. One of Charles’ spokespersons stated that these claims are solely speculative. Additionally, they mentioned they would not comment on matters of ascension to not disrespect the Queen. Buckingham Palace also chose not to discuss the issue.
- In regards to the Duke of Edinburgh title, last month Prince Edward told BBC that him receiving it was fine “in theory” when his father first mentioned it. He further mentioned he would “wait and see” as to what Charles does with it when he becomes king. Furthermore, he told the Daily Telegraph that obtaining the title would be bittersweet since it would mean both his parents passed away.
Although Edward does not know if he will obtain his long-awaited title, he currently maintains a number of his father’s patronages. With his wife, the Countess of Wessex, he champions the Duke of Edinburgh Award and serves as a trustee of the award’s organization. Edward is also a patron of the Edinburgh International Festival.
