Ever since the cancer diagnoses of the King and Princess of Wales, there has been a new royal order, a seismic shift in the public face of the monarchy.
Things were already slimmed down and losing two key players, albeit temporarily, has had an impact.
It’s also raised questions about whether the monarchy currently has enough manpower.
The Queen hasn’t just carried on, she’s stepped up and led the family and, certainly this week, has been the most visible royal.
There were some blustery conditions on the airfield. Pic: Reuters
For Prince William too, who is back to work after his summer break, priority still lies with his family while Kate takes time out.
The King has been able to continue his constitutional duties and hasn’t had to appoint counsellors of state, the royals who can deputise for him.
This also means they’re free to carry on with the public-facing duties he might have to miss.
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So this is the way the monarchy is navigating its way through what is undoubtedly a challenging year. But what of the future?
When Charles became King, many had expected change. It was expected we would by now know his vision of the monarchy and how it would adapt to reflect modern Britain.
His cancer diagnosis has put back any plans he might have had – but they may well become more apparent in the coming months as he returns from his summer break in Scotland.
A national memorial for the late Queen is being planned for St James’s Park
Pic: PA
However, perhaps the more immediate issue is how to manage the day job with a streamlined line-up.
Constitutional expert Dr Craig Prescott remembers the relevance of the late Queen‘s mantra that she had to be seen to be believed.
“Inevitably if you have fewer members, it’s harder to do that,” he said.
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For Dr Prescott this poses an existential and interesting question: “What is the public expectation of the monarchy, and does the monarchy have the resources to meet those expectations?
“Potentially the monarchy could be threatened if it loses support by virtue of not being seen out and about.”
This weekend marks two years since the late Queen died.
The Royal Family will, we’re told, will spend the day in private reflection.
Plans are also now under way for a national memorial in St James’s Park, close to Buckingham Palace, a permanent tribute to our longest serving monarch.
Source Agencies
