Princess Charlotte is the fourth in line to the throne behind her eldest brother, father and grandfather. Naturally, this predisposes her to a selection of honours on top of her princely title. But some will remain out of her reach, despite recent changes to the heritage framework.
The rule of male primogeniture governs how the Royal Family inherits and bestows titles.
In the past, the only way for a woman to ascend to the throne was if no immediate male heirs existed.
Queen Elizabeth II was the eldest daughter of King George VI, and she had no brothers.
But the rules have changed slightly to benefit her granddaughter.
READ MORE: Princess Charlotte spotted shopping for dresses with mum Kate
The Succession to the Crown Act 2013, passed following Prince George’s birth, means a male heir does not diminish a female royal’s claim to the throne.
The legislation applies to all royals born after 2013, so Anne, Princess Royal’s position remains the same, but Charlotte may now take the throne before Prince Louis.
The act doesn’t lift off every aspect of the archaic primogeniture rules, as Louis can still claim other privileges before his sister.
He could take on a Duchy before her, and possibly without marriage first.
“It is a title that remains for life, so Princess Charlotte will have to wait at least until the death of the current Princess Royal.”
When Princess Anne dies, the title won’t go straight to her, it will go back to the monarch.
At this time, Prince William will likely have taken the role, so he could then award it to Princess Charlotte.
But, once again, he may choose to wait until she is married, as royal rules make sleeping with the Princess Royal treason.
