In a fascinating revelation about the inner workings of royal tradition, it has emerged that Prince Harry was required to seek formal permission from his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, before proposing to Meghan Markle.
The Queen's Crucial Blessing
The Duke of Sussex had to navigate centuries-old royal protocols that dictate any senior member of the Royal Family must obtain the monarch's approval before marriage. This traditional rule, often overlooked by the public, remains a binding requirement for those in the direct line of succession.
Diana's Diamonds: A Touching Tribute
Adding deeper sentimental significance to the story, Harry chose to incorporate diamonds from his mother Princess Diana's personal collection into Meghan's engagement ring. The stunning piece features a central diamond from Botswana, where the couple had their third date, flanked by two smaller stones from Diana's jewellery box.
Royal Protocols Under the Spotlight
This disclosure highlights the complex web of traditions and rules that govern even the most personal moments within the monarchy. The requirement dates back to the Royal Marriages Act of 1772, though it was largely replaced by the Succession to the Crown Act 2013, which still maintains the monarch's approval for the first six people in line to the throne.
A Modern Romance Meets Ancient Tradition
The intersection of Harry's modern romance with Meghan and these time-honoured procedures creates a compelling narrative about the balancing act facing contemporary royals. While the couple's relationship represented a new, more progressive era for the monarchy, it still had to conform to established protocols that have governed the Royal Family for generations.
The Queen's approval, granted during a private meeting at Buckingham Palace, paved the way for Harry's romantic Christmas 2017 proposal at their Nottingham Cottage home in Kensington Palace.
