For years, rumours about Queen Elizabeth II's retirement have been rampant. According to the speculation, the longest-reigning monarch is set to abdicate the throne in 2021 upon turning 95.
If legislation that allows her to step down is passed, Prince Charles would assume the throne and become king.
"Her Majesty is mindful of her age and wants to make sure when the time comes, the transition of the Crown is seamless," according to a senior former member of the Royal Household.
The Queen and her family have been quiet about these alleged retirement plans, until now. In an unexpected move, the royals finally addressed the rumours.
“There are no plans for any change in arrangements at the age of 95 — or any other age,” reads the statement released from the office of the Prince of Wales.
Also, old age is not reason enough for her to abdicate. Stepping down is a serious matter and can lead to severe consequences. In fact, when the Queen's uncle, Prince Edward VIII, abdicated in 1936 to marry Wallis Simpson, his decision was greatly frowned upon and considered a constitutional crisis. Additionally, the Queen does not have the legal power to make Prince Charles king. The Regency Act of 1937 indicates that appointing a regent can only be done under very special circumstances.
The Queen's retirement is a hot topic these days because of the recent scandal her son, Prince Andrew, is embroiled in. The Duke of York is accused of associating with Jeffery Epstein, a convicted sex offender. He gave a tell-all interview with the BBC to clear the air, but that did more harm than good. Following his controversial television appearance, he announced that he was "stepping back" from royal duties for the "foreseeable future."
According to the reports, Andrew sought the Queen's permission before he quit. However, the sovereign is said to have consulted with Charles and Prince William before coming to a decision.
Some British tabloids and royal watchers saw this teamwork as a sign that the Queen is slowly handing duties to Charles to prepare for his takeover. However, anyone who has kept up with Her Majesty knows that she swore to rule for life.
“I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong,” she said during her 21st birthday speech.
So there you have it. Queen Elizabeth II isn't going anywhere and the people of Britain are fine with it.
