King Charles has delivered a significant blow to Prince Harry by excluding him from the role of councilors of State, a position that would have allowed Harry to stand in for his father during his absence.
The announcement came after the palace revealed that the King would undergo a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate, prompting speculation about potential replacements for additional duties. People reported that Prince Harry and Prince Andrew are no longer eligible for the councilors of State role, a decision quietly implemented after King Charles's session in the House of Lords on November 21st, 2022, regarding the councilors of State Bill 2022 to 23.
The Royal household confirmed that, in practice, only working members of the Royal Family will be called upon to serve as councilors of State. This stipulation, part of the bill that became law in December 2022, garnered attention for making Princess Anne and Prince Edward councilors of State for King Charles for life.
While Prince Harry and Prince Andrew technically hold the title, their withdrawal from Royal duties means they won't be considered for the responsibility. Lord Privy Seal Lord True emphasized that the bill is a practical government solution to ensure the continuity of the machinery, and working members of the royal family will be the ones called upon to act as councilors of State.
This development marks another setback for Prince Harry and Prince Andrew, who have faced controversies in recent years. The rule also affects Princess Beatrice, as the eldest daughter of Prince Andrew, who will not be permitted to act as a substitute for the King in times of need. Councilors of State play a crucial role in managing the monarchy on behalf of the sovereign during temporary incapacity or absence from the UK. The position is traditionally held by the sovereign's spouse, followed by the first four individuals in the line of succession over the age of 21.
Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, and Princess Beatrice were the councilors of State before the addition of Prince Edward and Princess Anne last year. The fast-tracking of the bill through Parliament was aimed at resolving potential constitutional issues arising from King Charles's reign starting shortly after Prince Harry and Prince Andrew stepped back from their working Royal roles. While councilors of State can undertake various duties, they do not have the authority to manage Commonwealth matters, dissolve Parliament, or make significant appointments without explicit instructions from the reigning monarch.
