Ever since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made the historic decision to leave the Royal Family in January 2020, tensions between family members have remained high. The couple lost their HRH titles and have since been involved in several controversies, including their Netflix documentary and Harry's autobiography, "Spare."
These events have led many to call for the removal of their Duke and Duchess titles. So, what is the likelihood that Harry and Meghan, along with their children Archie and Lilibet, will lose their royal titles?
Recent reports indicate that discussions about stripping Harry and Meghan of their titles have reached significant levels. According to a new book cited by the Mirror, the conversation has now involved some key individuals. While King Charles is reportedly not in favor of the move, other senior Royals are less accommodating.
The book states, "The King is said not to be in favor, but other senior Royals are less indulgent. Ultimately, despite Charles's enduring love for his son, he will come under increasing pressure if Harry continues to attack the monarchy.”
When it comes to the legality of removing their Duke and Duchess titles, the monarch does not possess the power to do so. An act of parliament would be required for this to occur. This action is rare, with the last instance being in 1917 when King George V passed the Titles Deprivation Act to remove British titles from several German and Austrian royals during World War I.
However, Labour MP Rachael Maskell has initiated a parliamentary bill that would grant the monarch or a parliamentary committee the authority to remove titles.
Another point of contention is the royal titles of Harry and Meghan's children, Archie and Lilibet. Due to their place in the line of succession and their parents' decision to leave the UK, the children were not initially given royal titles. However, in March 2023, Lilibet and her older brother Archie were officially listed as princess and prince on the Royal Family website.