King Charles III’s decision to grant Prince Edward and Sophie the titles of Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh has sparked debate within royal circles. While Charles was fulfilling a promise made by his late parents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, to bestow these titles on their youngest son, the decision carries deeper implications.
According to a report By GB News, Royal commentator Richard Eden believes this constitutes an “insult” to Prince Edward and Sophie, whom he considers the “unsung heroes” of the royal family this year. While Prince Harry and Meghan have pursued financial opportunities overseas, Eden points out that Edward and Sophie have quietly continued the tradition of public service established by the late Queen and Prince Philip.
The decision has puzzled some royal watchers, given the significant roles Prince Edward and Sophie have taken on. Following Prince Andrew’s withdrawal from public life and Prince Harry’s move abroad, Edward and Sophie have become integral to supporting King Charles. Sophie, in particular, is said to have developed a close relationship with Queen Consort Camilla.
As working royals, Edward and Sophie conducted over 500 engagements last year. They have taken on more high-profile responsibilities, such as standing in for the King and Queen Consort at important events. Additionally, Edward has assumed his late father’s role as Captain General of the Royal Marines.
For these reasons, some argue that more prestigious hereditary titles would have been a fitting recognition of Edward and Sophie’s service. While Charles was respecting his parents’ wishes, he does have the power, as monarch, to change the terms.
A clue into the King’s thinking may lie in his vision for a streamlined monarchy. Upon taking the throne, Charles stated his desire to continue his mother’s legacy while also modernizing the institution. Limiting hereditary titles and privileges across junior royals could be part of this initiative.
There may also be financial motivations. Edward and Sophie’s current titles require less cost and administration than hereditary ones. As the Duchy of Edinburgh merges back with the Crown after Prince Edward’s death, Charles may intend to scale back associated expenses.
Regardless of reasoning, the decision has dealt a blow to Prince Edward and Sophie’s hopes that James would eventually inherit the title. The couple had envisioned the role continuing through the Wessex line.
While the titles recognize Edward and Sophie’s hard work, the lack of inheritance has been dubbed a snub in some circles. Royal historian Marlene Koenig went as far as to call it “the stingiest act in history.”
As senior royals, Edward and Sophie will continue carrying out royal duties in support of the King and Queen Consort. However, the title decision has left questions about their long-term position within the slimmed-down monarchy Charles envisions.
How the situation unfolds in coming years will be telling. For now, debate continues around whether Charles insulted or rewarded his youngest brother and sister-in-law with his historic, yet controversial, choice on royal titles.
