It's Official! Edward now Duke of Edinburgh
What The King's Decision tells us about his Family Plans
How’s this for a birthday present! The news Royal watchers had been hoping for was announced this morning: The King has made Prince Edward the new Duke of Edinburgh on his 59th birthday.
Many were impatient for this news, as it had first been announced by the late Queen Elizabeth back in 1999, when Edward and Sophie were married:
“The Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and the Prince of Wales have also agreed that the Prince Edward should be given the Dukedom of Edinburgh in due course, when the present title held now by Prince Philip eventually reverts to the Crown.”
Important to note, that didn’t mean upon the death of Prince Philip, but upon the death of the Queen, “when it reverts to the Crown” - meaning upon the accession of King Charles.
Although people were impatient, remember that was only six months ago! The Royal Family tend to confer new titles on notable birthdays.
Prince Edward and Sophie are now The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, their son James was also created the new Earl of Wessex, his father’s former title. The Buckingham Palace website was also updated.
The Palace released a statement on their behalf:
“The new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are proud to continue Prince Philip’s legacy of promoting opportunities for young people of all backgrounds to reach their full potential.”
News of the titles was immediately celebrated, with tweets of Congratulations coming from The Duke of Edinburgh Award, The Royal Mint, The Production Guild, The Women’s Institute, and many other organisations which Edward and Sophie have supported.
One note with the title, it will not be a hereditary title, meaning it won’t go to their son James, it will revert back to the Crown. It was noted in the press release that: “The title will be held by Prince Edward for His Royal Highness’s lifetime.”
Contrary to reports, it’s not a matter of the title being more “senior” than another Dukedom, just that it’s much more significant to the family.
Queen Elizabeth II was born a York, to The Duke and Duchess of York. When she married, she became The Duchess of Edinburgh, as the Dukedom was given to Prince Philip on their wedding day. Philip of course continued to be known as The Duke of Edinburgh even as Consort, after his wife’s accession, and the title became associated with him alone.
Given Andrew’s antics, the York dukedom may lie dormant for several generations after his death, so the Edinburgh dukedom is a very significant one for the family, and no doubt The King wants it to be kept close to the line of succession.
Prince William may feel the same about Cambridge in the future. Sentiments that will fade with time and every new generation.
Though this day is most certainly about the new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and their family, I want to add a brief personal observation.
Today’s announcement is the perfect example of a title being announced by the palace - not “People Magazine” - and celebrated by all.
It must be quite heartwarming for Edward - and Sophie - to see the enthusiastic and genuine reaction from so many.
Contrast it with the unexpected, uncoordinated announcement of “Princess Lilibet” - and the confused reaction from many, even their supporters. For me, it makes the decision to start using that title all the more suspicious now, and frankly reinforces my own personal theory, that I wrote about here.
The words “panicked” and “obsessed” were used several times by sources describing the Sussexes and their thoughts regarding titles for their children. (It begs the question: if it concerns you this much, why did you leave, but I digress…)
You really have to wonder did they rush that out anticipating the news about Prince Edward and other possible changes?
And one more note. I’ve written about King Charles and his public image over the decades (The Emergence of a King) and I’ve seen that in action in real time this last week.
He was described as “ruthless and decisive” when the Frogmore Cottage story broke, then quickly condemned as a “weakling” with the “Princess Lilibet” story - now back to a champion for the Duke of Edinburgh decision! Is it any wonder The King decided to tune out ALL the news many years ago?!
I have no doubt that King Charles III has a plan.
Just because it isn’t public, doesn’t mean it isn’t happening.
The King decided long ago, not to be forced into action to appease the press. I doubt he feels pressured to react to Twitter mobs, or wayward family thousands of miles away. The announcements will come when he is ready, and it fits his plan.
Don’t expect advance warning! Did anyone see the Frogmore Cottage decision coming? Did anyone leak the Duke of Edinburgh announcement?
Not a whisper.
The King runs a tight ship. Stay tuned.
Once again - Sincere Congratulations to the new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh!
Well said, well written!