The Prince of Wales could reportedly make one major break from his father when he one day becomes King – by not leading the Commonwealth. Following his 2022 tour of Belize, the Bahamas and Jamaica with the Princess of Wales, William said: "Who the Commonwealth chooses to lead its family in the future isn't what is on my mind."
Sources have now told The Times: "The position hasn't changed." The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent countries and is currently headed by King Charles. The role is not hereditary and is chosen by member leaders, although a unanimous decision in 2018 confirmed that Charles would succeed Queen Elizabeth II.
© POOL/AFP via Getty ImagesThe reports come as the King begins a nine-day tour of the Bahamas, Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda, where he will preside over the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, joined by Queen Camilla. Ultimately, the decision rests with Commonwealth leaders rather than the royal family.
Some feel the link between the Crown and the Commonwealth is a cherished part of the late Queen's legacy that William should carry on, while others believe stepping back would be a sensible, modern move that leaves member nations free to choose. Vote in our poll and share your thoughts in the comments – should William lead the Commonwealth one day?
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