After learning of King Charles’ recent cancer diagnosis, people are understandably speculating about the royal family’s future. Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Anne have stepped up to fill in during the King’s absence. However, what will happen if, rather than abdicating the throne entirely, King Charles becomes too unwell to serve?
Regency Acts are acts created by Parliament if a reigning monarch is incapacitated or unable to carry out their official duties. A regent is the person appointed if a monarch becomes permanently incapacitated. The Regency Act of 1937 was brought in to establish guidelines if a monarch’s mental or physical illness should preclude them from ruling. It introduced the office of Counsellor of State--a group who could temporarily step in should a sovereign become temporarily unwell. The Counsellors of State are typically the Queen Consort and the next four people in the line of succession who are over the age of 21. In this case it would be Queen Camilla, Prince William, the Duke of Sussex, Prince Andrew, and Princess Beatrice. It’s very unlikely that Prince Harry or Prince Andrew would be considered. The Counsellors of State Act 2022 made Prince Edward and Princess Anne Counsellors of State as well.
Even though cancer is a serious diagnosis, I believe King Charles isn’t going anywhere! As much as I would love to see William become King, I wish a full recovery for the King!
“I now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation.”
~King Charles III
The Queen, Prince William and Princess Anne are all deputising for the King. Though I think I read that he has met with the prime minister at least once since he started treatment, so I’d say he’s making good progress.
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