Royal commentator Phil Dampier has suggested that Lady Louise Windsor, 22, and her brother James, Earl of Wessex, 18, could serve as valuable "secret weapons" for the British monarchy during a period of slimmed-down staffing.
Dampier, speaking to the Daily Mail, noted that while the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh's children do not use their royal titles, they have demonstrated a dedication to their studies and public appearances. James is set to study at the Royal Agricultural University, having spent time working on the King's farm at Sandringham. Lady Louise has recently graduated from the University of St Andrews and is planning a gap year, potentially for travel.
"They could turn out to be the royals’ secret weapons at a time when they need fresh legs," Dampier stated, emphasizing the need for youthful energy within the royal family. He pointed to the King's ongoing battle with cancer, Queen Camilla's age, and Princess Anne's advancing years as factors that place increasing pressure on Prince William and Catherine. Dampier suggested that Prince William might consider encouraging his cousins to take on more royal duties to support the family, especially given the current absence of Prince Andrew and the status of Prince Harry and Meghan as non-working royals.
He described both Lady Louise and James as "charming and intelligent royal family members" who appear "well-rounded and down to earth," attributing this to their parents' efforts to provide them with a relatively normal upbringing. However, Dampier acknowledged the uncertainty about whether either of them would wish to become working royals.
Recent public appearances have offered hints of a gentle nudge into the spotlight. Lady Louise was seen with her parents and boyfriend, Felix da Silva-Clamp, at a theatre visit. Her relationship with da Silva-Clamp, which began at St Andrews, appears to be progressing, with him attending her graduation and carriage riding trials.
Dampier also noted that James has been described as "Britain's most eligible bachelor." He suggested that if Lady Louise were to consider joining the armed forces, it would further enhance her suitability for royal duties.
Dampier concluded that while Duchess Sophie would prioritize her children's happiness, a continued willingness from Lady Louise and James to engage in public life could be beneficial for the monarchy's future. "If I were William I would be trying to get them on board for the sake of the future of the monarchy," he said.