Do Members of the British Royal Family Retain Their Titles if Not Actively Serving?

One of the timeless mysteries surrounding the British Royal Family is whether members who are not actively serving the nation retain their titles, particularly the style of Royal Highness (HRH). Several examples come to mind, including the Duke of York and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Although all these individuals are eligible for HRH style, they do not use it in private matters.

Prince Andrew: Not Using HRH

Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is perhaps the most notable exception, as he does not use his HRH title in any capacity. This raises the question of what happens to a member of the royal family who chooses to step back from public service.

The Sussexes: A Modern Example

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, have deliberately not used the HRH style for their children. They have chosen to bring up their children, Archie and Lilibet, with a more normal upbringing. In this context, Archie, like his cousin, was entitled to use his highest subsidiary title, Earl of Dumbarton, but his parents did not refer to him as such.

The Children of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh

Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, have also made the decision to minimize the royal titles for their children, making sure they can lead a more normal life. Their children, James and Louise, are entitled to princely titles and the style of Royal Highness, but they have not used them so far. At 18, Louise’s princess title (HRH Princess Louise of Gloucester) remains unused.

The Influence of Upbringing

Prince Edward and Sophie firmly believed that having royal titles could hinder the normal upbringing of their children. Thus, they decided to wait until their children turn 18 and allow them to make their own choices regarding the use of these titles. James, now 18, has similarly chosen not to use his princely title, and he could still use the Earl of Wessex courtesy title, which he inherited from his father before he was made Duke of Edinburgh.

Recent Developments

Archie and Lilibet have also been recognized as entitled to their princely titles and the style of HRH, regardless of whether they use them in private or public life. This recognition solidifies the royal lineage through the male line, ensuring that HRH status is maintained for potential future roles within the royal family.

The decision of whether to use royal titles is a personal one, based on individual circumstances and the desire to foster a more normal life. However, the entitlement to these titles remains irrefutable, ensuring that every member of the British Royal Family, even when not actively serving in public roles, retains their royal lineage and the title HRH as a symbol of their role within the monarchy.