The individuals who need the monarch's permission to marry are the first six in the line of succession to the British throne.
Here's a breakdown:
- The Succession: The current line of succession determines who is eligible to inherit the throne.
- The Rule: Individuals within the first six positions in the line of succession require the monarch's approval to marry. If they marry without this approval, they are disqualified from the line of succession.
- Purpose: This requirement aims to safeguard the integrity of the line of succession and ensure the monarch's consent on matters of royal lineage.
Important Considerations:
- This rule currently applies to individuals such as Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, Prince Harry, and Archie Mountbatten-Windsor.
- The Succession to the Crown Act 2013 altered some previous rules regarding succession.
- The monarch can make exceptions or grant permission for marriages, even if the individuals are within the top six.
In summary, while anyone can technically marry whomever they choose, the first six individuals in the line of succession to the British throne need the monarch's consent to marry in order to maintain their place in the line of succession.