Prince Harry retains the title of Counsellor of State despite stepping down as a working royal in 2020. The Duke of Sussex recently concluded a week-long visit to the UK, his longest since relocating to the United States six years ago. While he carried out engagements during his stay, these were not official royal duties.
What Is a Counsellor of State?
Counsellors of State are senior royals authorized to perform official duties on behalf of the sovereign when the monarch is ill or abroad. Typically, the role is held by the monarch's consort and the next four adults in the line of succession over the age of 21. The heir to the throne may serve from age 18.
Prince Harry currently holds this position, along with Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince Andrew, Princess Beatrice, Princess Anne, and Prince Edward. However, King Charles discreetly amended the Counsellors of State Act 2022 to ensure that only working royals can be called upon to act. According to Lord True, lord privy seal and leader of the Lords, during the bill's second reading on November 21, 2022, “only working members of the royal family will be called on to act as counsellors of state.”
Who Can Actually Serve?
The amendment added Princess Anne and the Duke of Edinburgh to the list of eligible counsellors. In practice, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, and Princess Beatrice hold the title but cannot exercise its powers because they are not working royals. The rules also stipulate that Anne and Edward will always remain counsellors, while Harry, Andrew, and Beatrice will eventually be replaced by Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis when they come of age.
Public Opinion Poll
Given that Prince Harry no longer carries out royal duties, a new poll asks readers whether he should lose his role as Counsellor of State. The Duke of Sussex retains his royal titles, including Duke of Sussex, but his status as a non-working royal has raised questions about his continued inclusion in this constitutional role.
Vote now and share your views on whether Prince Harry should be removed from the list of Counsellors of State.
