A proposal has been put forth by a Conservative Member of Parliament in an effort to strip the Duke and Duchess of Sussex of their titles amidst the ongoing royal racism row. Bob Seely, representing the Isle of Wight, aims to update wartime powers through a law change, allowing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to be recognized simply as Mr and Mrs Sussex. Seely argues that they should not be entitled to retain their titles and privileges if they continue to undermine an institution that holds immense significance for the nation. This move comes in the wake of the recent revelation in a Dutch version of Omid Scobie’s book, “Endgame,” which identified the King and Princess of Wales as the royals raising concerns about the potential skin color of the couple’s unborn baby, Archie.
Though Buckingham Palace previously dismissed the unsubstantiated allegation as fictitious when it first emerged two years ago, the controversy resurfaced following the book’s publication. The Dutch edition made worldwide headlines and was subsequently removed from bookshelves in the Netherlands due to what was deemed as an “error.” Omid Scobie, the book’s author, refuted claims of a “publicity stunt” and asserted that he never intended to include the names of the leading royals. The resulting uproar has prompted MP Bob Seely to seek action through his Titles Deprivation 1917 Amendment Bill at Westminster.
The proposed bill draws inspiration from a law initially enacted during the First World War, aimed at stripping German nobles of their British titles. Seely’s amendment seeks to modify the existing law by removing references to “enemies” and “present war.” His opinion, as expressed in The Mail on Sunday, highlights a personal support for the monarchy while advocating for the advisement of the privy council to strip a member of the Royal Family of their titles. Seely’s aim is to emphasize that if one chooses not to identify with a royal lineage, they should not retain the associated titles and privileges while concurrently undermining the institution itself.
While sources close to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle adamantly deny any involvement in the controversial claims made in Omid Scobie’s book, Seely expresses doubt in the credibility of these denials. He labels the racial smear as the most insidious and damaging allegation, one that leaves a lingering stigma despite being impossible to substantiate if proven false. This particular accusation contradicts the perception that the royals have long been inclusive and accepting, as demonstrated by the late Queen and King Charles who dedicated themselves to fostering relationships with individuals from all backgrounds, including ethnic minorities and those from Commonwealth nations.
The ongoing royal racism row necessitates a response that fosters progress rather than perpetuating animosity. The debate surrounding the titles of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex presents an opportunity for reflection and examination of the role and relevance of the monarchy in modern society. Whether the proposed Titles Deprivation 1917 Amendment Bill becomes law remains to be seen, but the underlying issue of racism within the royal institution demands careful consideration and a commitment to creating a more inclusive future moving forward.
Leave a Reply