There Are no Plans For Prince William to Have a Formal Investiture as Prince of Wales
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As soon as Prince William and Kate were made the Prince and Princess of Wales, Kensington Palace made it clear that they were focussed on “deepening the trust and respect of the people of Wales.” And today they made their first visit to the country in their new roles, beginning with Anglesey, where they made their first marital home back in 2011.
The couple arrived at the RNLI Holyhead Lifeboat Station not long after midday where they were scheduled to meet crew and volunteers before walking to the Holyhead Marine and Cafe Bar to meet more members of the community. “The Prince and Princess have a deep affection for Wales, having made their first family home in Anglesey, and have thoroughly enjoyed previous visits and the warmth and kindness shown by the Welsh people,” Kensington Palace said in a statement. “Their Royal Highnesses are looking forward to spending more time in Wales over the coming months and years, taking the time to strengthen their relationship with communities in all parts of Wales.” William and Kate were also scheduled to stop in Swansea later in the afternoon to meet volunteers at St Thomas Church, which runs initiatives including a foodbank and facilities for the homeless.
The visit comes as a source made it clear that there were no plans for William to have a grand investiture as Prince of Wales in the same way his father did when he was 20. In 1969, Prince Charles took part in a formal ceremony at Caernarfon Castle where his mother invested him with insignia relating to his new role and he took an oath. Instead of an investiture, William is said to be focussed on deepening the trust and respect of the people of Wales over time. With many people in the UK struggling in a cost of living crisis, the decision not to have a formal and lavish investiture will be seen by many as a shrewd move to ensure the monarchy remains relatable and relevant. There have also been suggestions that King Charles might opt for a scaled back coronation, although what this would look like is unclear and nothing has been announced.
A source said today that Wales has a special place in William and Kate’s hearts as it was where they made their first home as newlyweds when the Prince worked as a Search and Rescue Pilot. It was also Prince George’s first home.
The new King Charles announced in his first address to the nation following the Queen’s death that William and Kate would have the titles Prince and Princess of Wales. At the time, a royal source said that Kate appreciated the history of the role but wanted to look to the future as she creates her own path.
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