Can the British Royal Family Remove Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Titles?

The British Royal Family has the authority to modify or remove titles from its members. This includes titles such as Duke and Duchess of Sussex, which were granted to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry by Queen Elizabeth II in 2018. The question often arises whether the Royal Family can or should remove these titles, especially in light of their departure from royal duties and public controversies.

Authority to Strip Titles

The British Royal Family has the legal authority to make and modify titles. However, stripping titles requires careful consideration, involving public sentiment, legal implications, and the family's internal dynamics.

As of my last update in August 2023, there had been discussions and speculation, particularly regarding the Sussexes' titles, due to their departure from royal duties and various controversies. However, no official action had been taken to remove their titles at that time. Any decision to strip their titles would likely be made with a keen awareness of its potential effects on the monarchy and public perception.

Parliament's Role

It's important to note that only the King and Parliament have the authority to officially strip titles from members of the Royal Family. Any action to remove titles would require a parliamentary act. Given the constitutional responsibilities of Parliament, it is highly unlikely that the Sussexes' titles would be stripped, as doing so would undermine the decision made by the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Additionally, stripping titles is primarily a decision influenced by public expectations and the Royal Family's internal politics. It would be a complex and potentially controversial move, and the current political climate in the UK would make such an act unlikely.

Court of Public Opinion

The court of public opinion plays a significant role in any decision to strip Royal titles. In the past, if a member of the Royal Family fell out of public favor, they could be stripped of their titles. However, such actions would now be met with scrutiny and criticism, particularly given the modern and more democratic nature of the UK's governance.

For instance, if the Marriage of Charles and Diana was in turmoil, the public largely siding with Diana, Charles's titles could have been removed if the authorities deemed it necessary. Similarly, the occasional frivolous behavior of Edward VII could have led to a stripping of his titles. However, these scenarios are now understood to be rare and would face strong opposition in the modern context.

Royal titles are granted to recognize a person's status within the family, not as a reward for upholding public expectations. Despite these titles being symbolic, the Royal Family is unlikely to strip them to appease public sentiment, especially after a significant royal figure such as Queen Elizabeth II.

Princely Titles

While the Royal Family has the authority to strip titles, it is extremely unlikely that the Duke of Sussex's titles would be removed. As a prince by virtue of his birth, there are very few precedents for princely titles being removed. The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has no royal titles of her own to be stripped, although she can use "Princess Henry" if preferred.

In the rare scenario where noble titles might be considered, the Duchess would not be affected, as she can only use the female versions of her husband's titles. Any action would require parliamentary backing, and it is difficult to imagine the valuable time of Parliament being spent on such an issue.

Overall, the likelihood of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's titles being removed is extremely low. The Royal Family would need to consider the wide-reaching implications and public reaction, making such a decision highly politicized and potentially controversial.