Queen Elizabeth II has just made it very clear that she wants Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, to be referred to as ‘Queen Consort’ when son Prince Charles eventually takes the throne. It’s a decision which took the world by surprise, as it has previously been unclear what Camilla’s position or indeed title would be once her husband becomes king.
The Queen made the shock announcement on the eve of her Platinum Jubilee on Saturday, February 5th, which was to mark her extraordinary 70-year-anniversary on the throne. She is the only British monarch in history to reach this milestone!
"When, in the fullness of time, my son Charles becomes King, I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me," the 95-year-old monarch said. "And it is my sincere wish that, when that time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service."
The term 'Queen Consort' typically refers to the spouse of a ruling king, as the title of 'Queen' is usually given to a female ruler who becomes monarch through the line of succession, as was the case for Queen Elizabeth II after her father King George VI died. Up 'til now, it has been a little bit different for the husbands of the female monarchs, as The Queen's late husband, Prince Philip, was known as 'Prince Consort.'
Previously, it was thought that Camilla would be referred to as 'Princess Consort' once her husband took the throne. As per a press release back in 2005, when Prince Charles, 73, and Camilla Parker Bowles, 74, announced their engagement, "It is intended that Mrs. Parker Bowles should use the title HRH The Princess Consort when The Prince of Wales accedes to The Throne."
Naturally, Prince Charles is delighted with his mother's decision; perhaps even more so as The Queen's personal endorsement might make it easier for the public to accept and get on board with, as Camilla has seemingly always received mixedopinions from the public. A Clarence House spokesperson said the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall were "touched and honored" with The Queen's announcement; especially as it followed her New Year announcement which stated that Camilla would also become a member of the Order of the Garter.
