She added that William’s various international engagements show he has mastered diplomacy. “The aides I’ve spoken to and those who know him best say he is absolutely prepared,” she said. “Of course, it’s a moment he doesn’t want to think about. He loves his father and wants him to be around for a long time, but when the time comes, he will be ready.”
Royal expert Duncan Larcombe echoed the sentiment, telling the magazine: “William and Kate are at the forefront of the Firm and have become the monarchy’s biggest asset. They have a pivotal role in ensuring continuity and calm when at times there’s been anything but that behind the scenes.”
William has also hinted at how he might approach his future reign. During a visit to South Africa last November, he said he intends to “do it differently… for my generation.” He explained, “I’m doing it with maybe a smaller ‘R’ in the royal, if you like, that’s maybe a better way of saying it.”
