Harry and William's challenge How are British royal titles given and taken back?

The issue of royal titles in the UK has once again hit the headlines with a report about Meghan Markle using the title Her Royal Highness in a personal note to a friend. After stepping down from their official royal duties in 2020, she and Prince Harry agreed to no longer use this title in public and business activities, however, the complete removal of this title depends on the decision of the King himself.

In Britain, the use of royal and aristocratic titles is still common and official. In addition to common titles such as "Ms" and "Sir", you may come across titles such as "Sir", "Lady", "Lord", "Duke", "Duchess" or "Prince" on official papers or documents.

These titles are generally divided into two categories, some are inherited by a person at the time of birth and some are acquired and are granted by marriage or as a result of special services to the country.

Currently, removing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex from Harry and Meghan requires legislative approval through the British Parliament, as the title was officially granted to them by Queen Elizabeth II when they married in 2018. Harry's princely title cannot be revoked either.

Although there are reports that Prince William plans to take back the royal titles from his brother and Meghan Markle if he becomes king, the king's power in this regard is currently limited and seems to only include removing the title of Her Royal Highness.

The only law passed on the removal of titles dates back to 1917, when Parliament allowed the British government to take back titles of nobility from those who had fought against Britain in the First World War.