Prince George’s 12th birthday has brought to light a “worrying” issue with one aspect of Royal Family protocol, according to an expert. During a recent episode of Palace Confidential, the panel discussed an “interesting bit” of protocol concerning travel, as pointed out by host Jo Elvin.
The conversation revolved around whether George, who celebrated his 12th birthday on Tuesday (July 22), would follow in his father’s footsteps and no longer travel with him, a royal protocol that reportedly occurred when Prince William reached the same age.
Richard Eden, diary editor for the Daily Mail, revealed he had learned this from a “former pilot of royal helicopters”. He explained that the rule was put in place to protect the line of succession, but it would be “interesting” to see if it also applied to George.
When questioned about whether the royals intended to uphold this tradition, Rebecca English, royal editor for the paper, informed the Palace Confidential podcast that she’d spoken to the palace and got the “impression” that the family “won’t be changing” their travel arrangements.
Jo then interjected, mentioning that she had been aware of the protocol since her childhood, while Richard shared his views on why this fact wasn’t more widely known.
He noted that they “don’t like talking” about security or their travel plans, but proceeded to underline what could occur in the event of a tragedy, despite it not being a “tasteful discussion”.
Richard went on: “But I have to say, you know, I mean it’s not a very, sort of, tasteful discussion, but it’s the future of our Royal Family, and I personally find it very worrying. You know, look, after the Wales family, we have Harry and Meghan.”
He continued: “The fact is that, you know, Prince Harry and Meghan could be on the throne, and that’s something which would be a threat, I would say, to the future of the monarchy.”
In the UK succession to the crown follows both hereditary principles and Parliamentary statute. Prince William, as King Charles’ eldest son, stands first in the line of succession.
The Prince and Princess of Wales share three offspring – George, Charlotte, and Louis- who follow in that sequence according to age. Yet Prince Harry occupies fifth position in the royal pecking order.
Should circumstances prevent the Wales family from ascending to the throne, Harry would assume the role, with his children Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex following behind, before the line passes to Charles’ younger sibling, Prince Andrew, Duke of York.
Separately, Kensington Palace marked Prince George’s special day by sharing a fresh photograph of the young royal. The image was posted on social media (capturing a beaming George) alongside a message from his mother and father.
Their birthday message, complete with a celebratory cake emoji, declared: “Happy 12th Birthday to Prince George!”