Kings and Queens

[Maydup]

Leaving aside your views on the rights and wrongs of the Royal Family, can anyone possibly disagree that the first born should succeed the throne, regardless of gender?

[ummmm]

Nope....

[paddywak]

Of course a daughter should be allowed to take the throne.

[Brenden]

No

[boxtops]

I can't disagree, and this is why Cameron is looking to change the laws of succession. Prince William's child should succeed him whether male or female.

[rowanwitch]

It was common practice within some royal houses for the ruler to name his successor from his children/siblings This meant it was likely the best warrior/wisest person would become the leader on this basis I suspect our next monarch would have been Queen Anne... or possibly a generation skip to William without any problems... seems like a good idea as the parent/grandparent knows more about their strengths and weaknesses than accident of birth order

[boxtops]

It's interesting to see on the BBC News a minute ago, just how complex such as change would be and how many UK laws would have to change - and what I hadn't thought of, the knock-off effect in countries across the world such as Papua New Guinea, where the British Monarch remains a significant figure in their State processes and structures.

[tinkerbell23]

Nope xx

[jackthehat]

No, I don't think they can.

[lozzer50]

about time

[Maydup]

Yes about time the first born took the lead regardless. But the idea of the parent chosing the most appropriate child is also an interesting idea. That way if the third born for example is more suited or interested in the role than the elder two then they have the job. I quite like that.

[ummmm]

That would cause a few family arguments...

[Maydup]

Yes ummmm, stir it up a bit!

[Dee Sa]

first born it should be.