Camilla could be Queen, claims Charles

Published on Friday 19 November 2010 14:16

HOT on the heels of the announcement of his son's engagement, the Prince of Wales has hinted he expects Camilla to become his queen.

• Not for Kate: Sue Read, owner of Fantasia Bridal in Lostwithiel, Cornwall, shows Charles her flood-damaged dresses Picture: PA

In an interview pre-recorded for American television at the Castle of Mey in Caithness, Prince Charles appeared to falter when asked if his wife would become queen. He told Brian Williams of NBC: "That's well… perceivably. We'll see, won't we? That could be."

When Charles married his long-term partner in 2005, she was offered the title of Princess Consort - because, it was believed, the public would never accept her as Princess of Wales.

However, it has been said that Charles himself has always wanted Camilla to become queen when he succeeds to the throne.

Yesterday, a spokesman for the 62-year-old prince said he had been caught "off guard" during the interview - which was recorded before the announcement of the royal engagement.

"Nothing has changed. The intention absolutely remains that the duchess be known as Princess Consort when the prince becomes king.

"However, we have always made it clear that when the day comes, whatever the circumstances are at the time, the government would have the final say on the title the duchess uses."

In the interview, Prince Charles revealed he prefers interviewers not to refer to him as the future King Charles.

"If it comes to it, regrettably it comes as a result of death of your parent, which is not too nice to say the least," he said. "Obviously, if it comes, then you have to deal with it."

He said about being Prince of Wales: "The thing is it isn't a job description. You rather have to make it up as you go along, which doesn't always appeal to everyone else."

The heir to the throne also revealed how anxious he had been when his sons were on active army service - particularly when Prince Harry was serving in Afghanistan.

"He was terribly keen to go. When he was out there I worried the whole damned time, and I can understand, profoundly, what other families are going through."

Prince Charles said he advises his sons not to take advice from the media - but he said the amount of scrutiny made life difficult, particularly for his elder son, Prince William

"It is very intrusive, indeed, and very difficult," the prince said. "I feel for him deeply."

Yesterday, Charles visited a bridal wear shop during a visit to towns and villages in Cornwall hit by floods during the week. Sue Read, owner of Fantasia Bridal, in Lostwithiel, showed him the damage caused to her wedding dresses.

Meanwhile, an announcement was said to be "imminent" about the date and the venue for the royal wedding, which is tipped to take place in July.

William and Kate Middleton gave aides a list of suggestions on Wednesday. Speculation is mounting that the wedding will take place at Westminster Abbey, after photographs emerged of Ms Middleton and her family being shown around on a private tour.