The Earl of Wessex and the Princess Royal are likely to increase their workload in the coming years to accommodate for the Duke of Edinburgh’s retirement in the Autumn.
Although already the UK’s busiest royal, Princess Anne is expected to become a companion to The Queen when she undertakes official visits.
As the 91-year-old monarch never undertakes solo public engagements, her 66-year-old daughter will likely accompany Her Majesty on visits.
The Prince of Wales will also take over his 95-year-old father’s role for ceremonial and state occasions. This could include the State Opening of Parliament and President Trump’s State Visit to the UK.
The Earl of Wessex will also increase his role in the coming months, working with some of Prince Philip’s patronages – including the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Destined to be the future Duke of Edinburgh when his father passes, Prince Edward is already heavily involved in the awards scheme. He will most probably take over fully from Autumn.
The Earl has been an active participant in the awards programme since 1988, when he achieved his Gold Award. He regularly travels around the world to promote the awards in his capacity as a Trustee and Chairman of the International Awards.
He regularly travels the globe with his wife, the Countess of Wessex, presenting DoE Awards to proud recipients. Most recently he was in Bermuda.
If Edward does become Duke of Edinburgh in the future, his wife Sophie will become the Duchess of Edinburgh. She is also heavily involved in the scheme and last year completed a seven-day challenge in support of the DofE. She cycled 445 miles from the Palace of Holyrood in Edinburgh to Buckingham Palace, a tour that she described as ”lovely experience”.
The younger royals, the Duke & Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, will almost certainly have to step up in the years to come. As of yet, they all undertake fewer engagements than the 95-year-old Duke.
Prince William leave the Air Ambulance Service this year, so he will have more time on his hands.
Princess Beatrice and Eugenie will almost certainly not become working royals as a result of the Duke’s retirement. All arrangments will be dealt with by existing members.