Princess Anne and Prince Edward Considered as Potential Councillors of State in Royal Family

Princess Anne and Prince Edward, although not currently Councillors of State due to their place in the line of succession to the monarchy, have been suggested as natural candidates to join the current group of Councillors.

Palace officials and ministers are reportedly finalizing legislation that will be presented to Parliament to increase the number of individuals who can fulfill certain constitutional duties on behalf of the King in the event of his illness or absence from the country.

According to the Regency Act of 1937, two Councillors of State are required, and other members of the Royal Family may be nominated for this role.

Currently, Princess Beatrice is next in line to hold the position, followed by her sister Princess Eugenie, Prince Edward, and Princess Anne.

However, the possibility of Beatrice, who has not previously performed public duties, or Prince Andrew and Prince Harry, who have relinquished their senior positions within the Firm, carrying out constitutional duties has sparked debate among experts.

Dr. Craig Prescott, a constitutional scholar, expressed his opinion on the matter prior to the recent news of potential plans being developed.

He highlighted the need to address the issue, particularly if the King were to travel abroad for an extended period.

As Prince William cannot act alone, having two Councillors of State is essential.

The Daily Mail suggests increasing the number of Councillors by including full-time working Royals, such as Prince Edward and Princess Anne, who already conduct investitures.

Changing the Regency Acts of 1937 and 1953, which govern the role of Councillors, requires a law passed by Parliament.

The current designated Councillors of State, apart from the Monarch's spouse, are Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince Andrew, Prince Harry, and Princess Beatrice.

With King Charles' upcoming ascension and potential plans to travel abroad, the urgency to address this matter becomes more apparent.

Similar situations have occurred in the past, such as when Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, became a Councillor of State after the passing of King George VI.

Treating Prince Edward and Princess Anne similarly could provide more flexibility and allow Prince William to travel abroad alongside the King if necessary.

However, the ultimate decision lies with Parliament, although it is unlikely they would oppose it if the King and the Palace are in favor.

The recent rumors of King Charles wanting to change the rules on representation during his unavailability further emphasize the need for discussion and potential amendments.

The issue of Counsellors of State was raised in the House of Lords, with Viscount Stangate questioning the Government's intentions to amend the Regency Act of 1937.

He highlighted the relevance of the Act and queried whether individuals who have left public life, such as the Duke of York or the Duke of Sussex, should have the ability to exercise Regency powers.

Lord True, in response, stated that private conversations with the King or the Royal Household would not be made public but assured that the Government would consider measures to maintain resilience in constitutional structures.

As we await further developments, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold.

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