The Royal Frederic: Duke and Duchess of Sussex's Family and Titles

Public interest in the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, often revolves around their personal lives, particularly their family plans. Angela Merkel’s statement that they may have only two children underscores the secretive nature of their family decision-making process. This raises questions about the titles and styles of their children, especially regarding the legal rights and privileges they hold.

Titles and Styles of Prince Harry’s Children

Prince Harry, as the grandson of the Monarch, belongs to the royal family. His approach to using the courtesy titles for his children, Archie and Lilibet, highlights a nuanced understanding of royal protocol and family tradition. When Harry and Meghan chose not to use the courtesy titles their children were entitled to, this decision reflected their desire to maintain a private and harmonious family life.

Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor

At birth, Prince Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was eligible for the title “Earl of Dumbarton” - his father’s second most senior territorial title. However, his parents opted not to use this title, reflecting their preference for a quieter family life. This step underscores the Duke and Duchess's strategic approach to their royal duties and their desire to avoid the heightened media scrutiny often associated with such titles.

Lilibet of Sussex

An analogous approach was taken with Lilibet, who, at birth, was entitled to the courtesy title “Lady Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor.” Similar to Archie, Lilibet’s title was not used, and the Duke and Duchess likely opted for a less public-facing naming convention for their family.

Transition upon Ascension to the Throne

The transition to royal titles and styles became more formal upon the ascension of King Charles III. Under the terms of the Letters Patent issued by King George V in 1917, Harry’s children are now automatically entitled to the style of His/Her Royal Highness (HRH) and the title of Prince/Princess. These legal rights are an intrinsic part of their status within the royal lineage.

Legal and Historical Context

HM King Charles III has the authority to issue additional Letters Patent to clarify that the royal style and titles are inherited at birth, as is the case for all other royal dignitaries since 1917. However, given the peaceful nature of his royal line and his lack of reason to impose punitive measures, such an action is unlikely. The continuation of the current legal framework provides a clear path for the titles and styles of Archie and Lilibet in the coming years.

Family Privacy and Public Opinion

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made a conscious decision to exercise a degree of privacy and discretion. While they may have only two children, the specific reasoning behind their family planning is largely a matter of personal choice, shielded from the public eye by a firm desire for privacy. This approach is in line with many British royals who wish to maintain a balance between their public duties and personal lives.

The outcome of their reproductive plans, therefore, remains a private domain, shaped by their personal values and considerations. The public can only speculate, much to the fascination and sometimes frustration of royal watchers.