Prince William’s Bold Plan to Shrink the Monarchy Could Backfire as Experts Issue Stark Warning

Prince William may be determined to create a leaner monarchy, but royal experts are warning that his bold plan could come with serious consequences. The Prince of Wales has long been seen as the future of the monarchy, yet his vision of a smaller royal family is now raising concerns about how it could impact the Crown’s connection with the public.
Robert Jobson, a respected royal expert, explained in a recent interview that the monarchy thrives on visibility and personal connection. According to him, the Royal Family’s bond with the people is what gives the institution its unique strength.
“People do turn out when they see, particularly people like Sophie Wessex and the new Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward,” Jobson told The Sun. “They turn out in droves. They like that connection. And if you lose that connection, the monarchy actually loses something that it’s about.”
His comments highlight the potential risks of William’s plan to streamline royal duties. While a smaller monarchy may reduce costs and ease pressure on the working royals, it could also weaken the essential relationship between the Crown and its subjects.
Jobson’s warning comes as William continues to shape his royal role in a way that reflects his modern outlook and devotion to his family. The Prince of Wales has consistently shown that his priority lies with Kate Middleton and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Another royal commentator, Matt Wilkinson, added that William’s life is very different compared to his father, King Charles. “He’s very much focusing on his young family,” Wilkinson said. “Remember, Charles as King doesn’t have a very young family that he has to make sure he’s at home when they get back from school. That’s what William enjoys.”
The school run and quiet life in the countryside are aspects of family life that William reportedly cherishes. He has often emphasized that he wants his children to experience as normal an upbringing as possible, away from constant scrutiny and pressure.
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But Wilkinson pointed out that William’s approach diverges significantly from the way the late Queen Elizabeth balanced her public role with motherhood. “The Queen worked extremely hard when she was bringing up her children,” Wilkinson noted. “That’s what William perhaps is choosing not to do. But it’s a different era as well.”
This generational shift in priorities reflects the changing face of the monarchy. Whereas Queen Elizabeth embodied duty above all else, William represents a modern leader who values balance between royal responsibilities and family life.
Still, some experts argue that trimming the monarchy could leave gaps in public service. With fewer senior royals available to attend events and represent the Crown, smaller communities and charities may feel overlooked. These local connections have long been seen as vital to the monarchy’s enduring relevance.
At the same time, supporters of William’s vision argue that a downsized monarchy is not only practical but also necessary in the current climate. With growing debates about the cost of the royal family, a streamlined approach could ensure the institution remains sustainable.
King Charles himself has already hinted at a smaller royal team, but William’s version may go even further. By centering his reign on a tight knit family unit, he could redefine what the monarchy looks like for the next generation.
The debate raises an important question: can a reduced monarchy still maintain the same public loyalty and national presence? Or does the Crown risk losing its special bond with the people if too many faces disappear from public life?
As William continues to prepare for his future as King, this question will only become more pressing. For now, the Prince of Wales remains focused on striking a balance between family and duty, but the risks of his streamlined monarchy may linger long after his vision becomes reality.