Royal 'rule' Prince William 'won't be following' with son George after his 12th birthday
An expert has called the decision "worrying"Prince George turned 12 years old this week, leading to a great deal of speculation over whether the royal family will be bringing in a traditional travel rule.
If they do, it could see some big changes to the way the royal family operates in the coming years.
What is the royal travel rule?
Under long-standing royal protocol, two direct heirs to the throne are expected not to fly together. It’s said that this rule is designed to protect the line of succession. It ensures that in the event of an accident, at least one heir remains safe.
The protocol was discussed on the latest episode of the Daily Mail’s Palace Confidential.
Citing a former royal helicopter pilot, royal commentator Richard Eden explained: “[The pilot] said that when Prince William reached the age of 12, he stopped travelling with his father so that they had separate flights. Obviously, that is to guarantee the line of succession.”
Of course, Prince William is currently first-in-line to the throne, and son Prince George second-in-line.
Up until now, the father and son have frequently been known to travel together whether by plane, boat, helicopter or car.
The royal family have not discussed whether this will continue as Prince George and his siblings get older.
However, the Mail’s Royal Editor, Rebecca English, went on to suggest that the royal family may be choosing to break with this tradition.
Royal family could break with tradition with George
“I spoke to the palace this week,” she claimed. “And they were like ‘Well, it’s kind of news to us.’ I get the impression that the family won’t be changing their travel arrangements at all.”
Host Jo Elvin described this decision as “weird”.
I find it very worrying
Richard Eden agreed: “Yeah, they don’t like talking about security and travel arrangements. But I have to say, I mean, it’s not a very tasteful discussion, but it is the future of our royal family, and I personally find it very worrying.”
He finished up by issuing a plea to the royal family concerning the travel rule. He encouraged them to put George on separate flights and helicopter rides from his father for his safety, even if it wasn’t the most environmentally-friendly thing to do.
Kensington Palace declined to comment on this story.
Whether or not the palace decide to implement this travel rule, it will be a year of change for George. Next September, the youngster will move on to big school, away from his younger sister and brother. It has not yet been confirmed which school he will attend, but reports suggest it’ll be Eton College.
Read more: Ed Sheeran on Prince William’s ‘amazing skill’ as royal issued him advice: ‘No more!’
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