Queen by technicality

London

Camilla Parker Bowles will automatically become queen if her husband ascends to the throne—whether she wants the title or not, the British government said this week. In announcing their engagement several months ago, Prince Charles and his longtime mistress promised that she would take the title of “princess consort” when Charles ascended to the throne. But legal authorities have concluded that it isn’t up to her. The constitutions of 17 other members of the British Commonwealth would have to be amended to deny her the right to the title, and Canada and Australia have already said they won’t bother. Still, even a Queen Camilla would have no constitutional powers, as she would be queen consort, a courtesy title, not queen regnant, which is Queen Elizabeth’s title. Charles and Camilla will marry in April.

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