Tom Bower on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Royal Status Within Constitutional Framework
Royal status within the United Kingdom is governed by formal instruments. Titles such as Duke and Duchess are granted by the sovereign and may be altered only through established constitutional procedure. The use of “HRH” style, for example, follows specific guidelines outlined in letters patent. Prince Harry retains his dukedom by virtue of creation, while the usage of certain styles shifted following the couple’s transition away from senior working duties in 2020. That adjustment reflected operational realignment rather than revocation of peerage. Tom Bower, as a biographer and commentator, frequently examines structural questions surrounding monarchy. Commentary on potential future alteration of titles enters public discourse periodically, particularly during moments of institutional recalibration. Revocation of a peerage would require legal mechanism. Parliament possesses authority to legislate in matters concerning titles, though such action is historically rare. Prece...