Royal engagements and the etiquette that accompany them are laden with centuries of tradition.

It's a world where hierarchy and protocol reign supreme and even the smallest deviation can become the subject of intense scrutiny.

This was precisely the scene at a recent joint engagement, where Queen Camilla's attempt to break royal protocol was met with a polite but firm resistance from Princess Anne.



On 20 November, the University of London was abuzz with royal presence as Princess Anne, in her capacity as Chancellor, was set to present Queen Camilla with an honorary doctorate of literature.

This accolade recognised Camilla's longstanding promotion of literacy and literature, a cause close to her heart.


As the two royals arrived for the ceremony, an interesting exchange unfolded. Queen Camilla invited her to enter the room first. However, Princess Anne ‘smiled and politely refused, allowing Camilla to enter first’.

According to The Daily Express, she understood that maintaining the established order of precedence as ‘a sequential hierarchy of nominal importance’, which places Camilla, as the consort of the monarch, above herself in rank.

‘I’ve known her a long time, off and on,’ Anne said in Charles III: The Coronation, a 2023 BBC documentary.

‘Her understanding of her role and how much difference it makes to the King has been absolutely outstanding.’

'This role is not something that she would have been a natural for, but she does it really well. And she provides that change of speed and tone.'


The relationship between King Charles and Queen Camilla has been forged over decades, with its fair share of public scrutiny—from the on-and-off relationship to their respective divorces, Charles from Princess Diana, and Camilla from Andrew Parker Bowles.

Their marriage in 2005 marked a new chapter, not only for them personally but also for the royal institution.

Since then, Camilla has embraced her responsibilities with a blend of grace and dedication, becoming patron or president of over 100 charities and championing causes such as literacy with genuine passion.

The honorary degree bestowed upon Queen Camilla is a testament to her efforts in promoting literacy and education.

It's a recognition shared by other royals and distinguished figures throughout history, including King George V, Queen Mary, Sir Winston Churchill, T.S. Eliot, and Dame Judi Dench.



Sir Mark Lowcock, in his praise of Queen Camilla before the degree presentation, highlighted her 'grace, compassion, and tireless energy' in her public service.

‘Her commitment to the promotion of literacy and literature stands out as a testament to her personal passion and belief in the transformative power of books,’ Lawcock said.

‘It is only fitting that this honorary doctorate of literature recognises Her Majesty’s exceptional efforts to advance literacy and education, not simply as a public duty, but as a personal mission inspired by a lifelong love of reading.’

‘Her Majesty’s work has touched countless lives and will continue to inspire future generations of readers and writers,’ Lowcock added.
What are your thoughts on the importance of maintaining these royal protocols? Do you think they are still relevant in today's society, or should the monarchy adapt to more modern practices? Share your views with us in the comments below!