Overview

This bill makes several significant changes relating to the British monarchy and the Duchy of Cornwall. Key changes include altering how the Sovereign Grant is used, reforming the succession to the Dukedom of Cornwall, transferring Duchy assets into a public trust, and removing the need for royal consent on parliamentary bills.

Description

This bill amends the Sovereign Grant Act 2011, restricting its use to fund official travel for the six people next in line to the throne. The definition of "official royal travel" is also specified.

Succession to the Duchy of Cornwall

The bill alters the rules of succession to the title of Duke of Cornwall. Currently, only the eldest son of the monarch inherits the title. This bill changes this to the eldest child, regardless of gender.

Duchy of Cornwall Assets

The bill mandates the transfer of the assets and property of the Duchy of Cornwall to a public trust, benefiting the people of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The Secretary of State will determine the details of this trust.

Royal Consent

The bill eliminates the requirement for Parliament to seek the consent of the Monarch, Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, or Prince Regent before considering any bills.

Government Spending

The bill will likely lead to a reduction in government spending allocated to the Sovereign Grant as its use will be restricted to official royal travel for a limited number of individuals. The precise financial impact will depend on the implementation of the changes and the future travel arrangements of the Royal Family. No specific figures are provided in the bill text. The transfer of the Duchy of Cornwall's assets to a public trust will change the way those funds are managed, but the overall effect on government spending is unclear.

Groups Affected

The Royal Family: Their travel funding will be more strictly regulated, and the succession to the Dukedom of Cornwall will be affected.
The People of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly: They will benefit from the transfer of Duchy assets to a public trust.
Parliament: No longer requires royal consent to consider bills.
The Duchy of Cornwall: Will see its assets and property transferred to a public trust.

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