Can the Royal Engagement Strike a Blow for Equality?

Posted by Catherine Osborn on November 16, 2010 · 2 Comments 

Rumour has it that helicopter pilots are more likely to father girls, a theory with which the Duke of York may well concur.  If so, that means that there is a more than 50:50 chance that Kate and Wills will produce a girl, quite possibly in little over 12 months.  And if, like the Yorks, that girl is followed by another, then the question of succession can be swept under the red carpet for another generation. 

But what if?

What if boy follows girl?  Are we really going to tell that princess that, despite the huge strides made by women in the last 100 years, not to mention a pretty impressive 60+ year reign by Great Grandma, the top job is going to little brother?  What excuse is there for male primogeniture in the 21st century?

Then, of course, there’s the matter of religion.  Roman Catholics must renounce their religion to marry into the Royal Family although surprisingly, this rule does not apply to people of other faiths or atheists.  It is this fact, perhaps, that exposes the rule for all its unfairness – this isn’t about maintaining the connection between the Church of England and the monarchy, it’s an archaic law based on centuries-old anti-Catholic sentiments.

At first glance, this second issue seems to be more complicated to solve but is it?  It is rumoured that Prince Charles has indicated that he would like to be known as “Defender of Faith” rather than “Defender of the Faith” – a subtle change that could have massive significance.  And his role as Supreme Governor of the Church of England, which is only symbolic, could easily be handed over to the Archbishop of Canterbury. 

Although my children are Catholics, I’m not too concerned about their charms being passed up by the next generation of Windsors!  However, I don’t want them to grow up in a society that specifically discriminates against them and peddles an ancient myth that boys are better than girls.

[tweetmeme source= “catherineosborn” only_single=false]I believe that the best present we can give the Royal couple is to ensure that any daughters they have are treated fairly.  If you agree, please write to your local MP and, for good measure, the Home Secretary and ask them what they plan to do to change the law.

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Filed under Life · Tagged with Church of England, equality, male primogeniture, Roman Catholics, royal engagement, royal family, royal wedding, UK succession