A British lawmaker, Conservative Member of Parliament Bob Seely, is contemplating a parliamentary bill aimed at stripping Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their royal titles due to the controversy surrounding alleged racist comments.
Seely advocates for this drastic measure, comparing it to legislation during World War I that revoked titles from German aristocrats. The proposal is triggered by the couple’s perceived disparagement of the monarchy, as detailed in the Dutch version of Omid Scobie’s new royal book, “Endgame.”
The book implicates King Charles III, as mentioned by Meghan in comments about Prince Archie’s potential skin tone. Although an error led to the removal of copies from shelves, the controversy has reignited discussions about the Sussexes’ role within the royal family.
Seely, in an op-ed for The Mail on Sunday, outlines his plan to present a bill in Parliament, proposing an amendment allowing royal titles to be stripped through the Titles Deprivation 1917 Act Amendment Bill.
Seely emphasizes that he supports the monarchy but believes that if members of the royal family choose to denigrate the institution, they should forfeit their titles and privileges. He argues that the couple should be treated like ordinary citizens if they no longer wish to uphold their royal responsibilities.
The political landscape adds an element of uncertainty since backbench MPs’ bills often fail without government support. While there is currently no indication that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak would back this proposal, recent unexpected diplomatic incidents have made the government less predictable.
Seely’s move reflects growing discontent within certain circles, fueled by the couple’s outspoken comments and actions.
Scobie, the author of “Endgame,” has clarified that Meghan was not interviewed for the book, citing letters exchanged between Charles and Meghan after her March 2021 Oprah Winfrey interview as his source.
The controversy surrounding the alleged racist comments and the subsequent proposal to strip titles underscore the ongoing tension between Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and the broader royal family.