The occurrence of these unexpected dual emergencies has prompted observers to consider whether the Duke of Sussex might be called upon to temporarily fulfill his father's duties.
According to the royal protocol outlined in the handbook, the Counsellors of State are appointed to act on behalf of the monarch when both King Charles and his direct successor, Prince William, are unable to fulfill their roles effectively.
In this scenario, the Counsellors of State would include the monarch's spouse, along with the four most senior members in the line of succession who are over 21 years of age. As per the current description, this group encompasses Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, and Princess Beatrice. However, a change in policy has led King Charles to request that Parliament replace Prince Harry and Prince Andrew with Princess Anne and Prince Edward, as the latter two are no longer working members of the royal family.
In theory, Prince Harry could still undertake the significant responsibility, but it is unlikely due to his status as a non-working royal and his lack of a residence in the UK following his relocation to the United States.
