Written question asked by Alan Reid (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 29 June 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 5 July 2011. It was answered by Lord Harper (Conservative) on Tuesday, 5 July 2011 on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Act of Settlement

Question: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what recent discussions he has had with Commonwealth Governments on reform of the Act of Settlement.

Answer: Both my right hon. Friends the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister have made it clear that they think Government should look at the rules which allow younger sons to inherit the Throne over their elder sisters. But this is a complex issue and not one which the UK can proceed with unilaterally. Discussions are continuing with the other Commonwealth countries who would be affected but it would not be appropriate to reveal the details.

Secondary information