Prince William has drawn up a five-point plan to modernise the monarchy once he becomes king, according to a well-placed source. The plan includes a slimmer royal family, fewer engagements and patronages, reduced formality, a focus on frugality, and a move away from the Commonwealth.
The source said the Prince and Princess of Wales are reluctant to lead tours of the Commonwealth, viewing it as an outdated institution. Prince William previously suggested he does not mind if he is not head of the Commonwealth, stating that who leads it in the future is not on his mind.
The couple are said to be inspired by the smaller-scale, home-focused royal families of the Netherlands and Sweden. The source added that once William and Kate become king and queen, the wider royal family will be reduced significantly, with the Wales family as the main focus.
Prince William is also planning for a monarchy that does not include Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The source indicated that William sees no future for the Sussexes in the royal family, with the focus instead on the Wales family and a reduced number of patronages and engagements.
When William ascends the throne, his coronation is expected to be scaled down, with less pomp and ceremony. The source said processions, rituals and official ceremonies will be replaced by more modern displays, and frugality will be a key consideration for state banquets and public displays of wealth.
