The Titles and Protocol of the Duchess of Cambridge: How She Addresses the Queen

The death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022 marked the end of a long era, which also affected the titles and protocols surrounding her heirs and closest family members. One of the most notable changes concerns the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine Middleton, and how she addresses her late mother-in-law.

Queen Elizabeth II: A Nation of Grief

Queen Elizabeth II, Britainrsquo;s longest-reigning monarch, passed away on September 8, 2022, leaving a nation in deep mourning. This event not only marked the end of an era but also impacted the protocol and titles held by those closest to the monarchy, including the Royal Family members and their entourage.

Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge: Her Titles and Protocol

Upon her marriage to Prince William in 2011, Catherine, formerly known as Catherine Middleton, became Duchess of Cambridge and gained the style of Her Royal Highness. She also assumed various titles including Duchess of Cornwall, Duchess of Rothesay, and Countess of Strathearn.

As the heir to the throne took the throne, Catherine officially became Princess of Wales. Her titles further expanded to include those in Scotland and Ireland, the Irish Guards, Canadian Rangers, Royal Air Force cadets, and several honors and positions.

How Catherine Addresses Her Late Mother-in-Law

Following Queen Elizabeth IIrsquo;s death, protocol around addressing the Queen changed. While Catherine would typically call her late mother-in-law Camilla, it is important to understand the historical evolution of this relationship and the formal language used in top-level interactions.

Historical Context: Before Queen Elizabeth IIrsquo;s passing, Catherine often addressed the Queen as ldquo;Her Majestyrdquo; in formal settings. Any subsequent address would use ldquo;Ma’amrdquo; to maintain a respectful distance.

Adjustment After the Kingrsquo;s Accession: Since King Charles III acceded to the throne in September 2022, there has been a slight adjustment in protocols. As the King and Queen are now separate entities, Catherine is no longer expected to address the Queenrsquo;s title as ldquo;Her Majesty.rdquo;

Protocol for Addressing the Queen

Technically, following the Kingrsquo;s accession, the correct protocol for Catherine when addressing the Queenrsquo;s title is now:

Your Majesty (for the King) Ma’am (after ldquo;Your Majestyrdquo; in all subsequent addressing)

Additional Considerations: It is worth noting that these protocols apply to formal and official settings. In informal interactions, the Duchess of Cambridge may opt to use more casual titles or addresses, such as ldquo;Her Royal Highnessrdquo; or even ldquo;Camillardquo; with former marital status.

Current Titles of the Duchess of Cambridge

Here is a complete list of Catherinersquo;s current and past titles and positions as of September 2022:

HRH The Princess of Wales (technically) Third and present Duchess of Cornwall (Catherine lives in what was the Queenrsquo;s official London residence) Second and present Duchess of Cambridge Second, present, and official Duchess of Rothesay (in Scotland) Second, present, and official Countess of Strathearn (in Scotland) Second, present, and official Baroness of Renfrew (in Scotland) Second, present, and official Lady of the Isles (in Scotland) Third, present, and official Baroness of Carrickfergus Earl of Chester (wife of) Countess of Chester (by marriage)

The Royal Titles and Honors

Catherine, as a royal, holds several titles and honors. These include:

Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GVC) Colonel of The Irish Guards Honorary Canadian Ranger Honorary Air Commandant of The Royal Air Force Air Cadets Lady Sponsor of the HMS Glasgow Lady Sponsor of the Royal Princess Lady Sponsor of the RRS Sir David Attenborough Member of The Tuvalu Order of Merit

These titles and honors not only denote her status within the royal family but also highlight her ongoing contributions to various charitable and military organizations.

Conclusion

The death of the Queen and the accession of King Charles III brought significant changes in the protocol and titles of the British royal family. The Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine, is now no longer addressing the Queen using ldquo;Her Majestyrdquo; in official settings. Instead, she addresses the King as ldquo;Your Majestyrdquo; and continues to use ldquo;Ma’amrdquo; after the initial address.

Understanding these intricacies is crucial for maintaining the proper protocol and showing respect in both formal and informal settings. Catherinersquo;s current and past titles and positions highlight her role in the British royal family and her ongoing contributions to various causes and organizations.