A new poll asks whether Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet should be removed from the line of succession. The children of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle currently hold the sixth and seventh positions in the line to the British throne, despite their family's move to the United States and departure from royal duties.
Current Positions in the Line of Succession
Prince Harry remains fifth in line to the throne, followed by his son Archie, born in the UK in 2019, and his daughter Lilibet, born in California in 2021. Lilibet, affectionately known as 'Lili', became seventh in line at birth. The siblings, now aged seven and five, are being raised in Montecito, California, far from their royal cousins in the UK.
Limited UK Visits and Royal Relationships
Archie and Lilibet last visited the UK in June 2022 for the late Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee. During that trip, they celebrated Lilibet's first birthday with a party at Frogmore Cottage, the couple's former UK home. Four years later, the family is set to return to the UK next month, marking Meghan's first visit since 2022. Harry is reportedly planning to meet his father, King Charles, though it is unclear if Meghan and the children will be present.
The King is believed to have met his youngest granddaughter only once, in June 2022. It remains unknown if he will reunite with Archie and Lilibet during the upcoming trip. Reports also suggest the King may speak at the Invictus Games next year, which would be a symbolic moment for the estranged father and son.
Public Opinion and the Poll
The poll, published by Lauren Welch, Royal Reporter in London, invites readers to vote on whether Archie and Lilibet should retain their places in the line of succession. The debate comes amid ongoing discussions about the role of non-working royals and the geographical distance between the Sussex family and the rest of the monarchy.
According to royal experts, the children's positions have not changed since birth, but their lack of public royal duties and life abroad have prompted questions about their future roles. The poll results will reflect public sentiment on this matter.
