Historical precedent exists for such reforms. In 1917, King George V issued Letters Patent restricting the title of Prince or Princess to the children of the sovereign and the children of the sons of the monarch.
Queen Elizabeth II updated the rules in 2012 to include the children of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales.
Royal historians suggest new Letters Patent could further slim the ranks and clarify the distinction between working royals and private family members.
Sources also suggest the future King William and working royals could be required to increase transparency, including publishing their finances, tax contributions, and a public register of charitable interests – measures that could reduce perceptions of privilege and misuse of influence.
A palace insider claimed: “There’s a strong drive to make the monarchy more accountable. Titles aren’t merely symbolic – they come with responsibilities. Reducing them is part of a wider effort to modernize the institution.”
As the discussion grows, the future of Beatrice and Eugenie’s royal status is unclear, and experts suggest similar reforms could affect other non-working royals who benefit from their birthright without carrying out official duties.
