Thaindian News

London, Apr 16 (ANI): If plans to alter “discriminatory” rules governing the line of succession go through then Prince William and Kate Middleton’s eldest daughter would become Queen ahead of her younger brothers.

The plan to do away with the principle of male primogeniture from the monarchy so future princesses will have the same rights as male children, is being actively pursued by Nick Clegg, the Deputy Prime Minister.

Under current arrangements, the Prince’s first born son would be next in line to the throne, even if he had an older sister.

Clegg, who is responsible for constitutional reform within the Government, is seeking to change this so that in future the line of succession is determined without regard to sex.

He has already raised the matter at the Privy Council, and is understood to have obtained the Queen’s consent to the move if this proves to be the will of the people.

But David Cameron is said to be less keen on the change due to the complications involved.

As the British monarch also acts as the head of state of a number of Commonwealth nations, any change to the line of succession would require legislation in 16 separate countries.

The Prime Minister is said to believe that to achieve this would be complex and time-consuming at a time when the Government’s full attention should be on tackling the deficit and enacting the Coalition agenda.

However, following the Royal Wedding later this month, Clegg is said to believe that the matter has become more pressing, with the possibility of a baby princess arriving within a year.

“The Government is aware that this is an issue but it is a complex and difficult matter that requires careful and thoughtful consideration,” the Telegraph quoted a spokesman for the Deputy Prime Minister as saying.

“Nick, like many people, is very sympathetic to the view that the current rules are discriminatory and should change.

“However, it is not as simple as it seems. There is a lot of work to do and the Government has already started discussions with those Commonwealth countries who would be directly affected,” he stated. (ANI)