In a conscious effort to
remodel the monarchy, royal experts have predicted that the 75-year-old
may do away with ladies-in-waiting.
The women, known as the ‘Head
Girls’ played a key role in Queen Elizabeth II’s life, with many becoming close
companions and trusted friends.
The head of state reportedly
handpicked her close-knit team, selecting a cohort of women capable of carrying
out administrative tasks, organizing events, managing the Queen’s wardrobe, and
helping the monarch to dress and undress.
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The Queen pictured with Dame Annabel Whitehead
They fulfilled their roles out
of personal loyalty to the Queen, with companionship one of their most
important duties. Notably, they come from wealthy families and as such are
able to work without pay.
Prior to her death, the
Queen’s ladies-in-waiting were Dame Mary Morrison, Lady Elizabeth Leeming,
Susan Rhodes Dame Annabel Whitehead and Lady Susan Hussey.
In December 2021 two of the
Queen’s closest ladies in waiting passed away, Fortune FitzRoy, the Duchess of
Grafton, 101, and Lady Farnham, 90.
Upon
marrying into the royal family, both Camilla and Princess Kate were given the
opportunity to appoint ladies-in-waiting, but neither of them did.
And following the death of the
late monarch, it seems unlikely that Queen Consort Camilla will suddenly change
her tune.
The King’s private secretary said:
“I appreciate that this is unsettling news and I wanted to let you know of
the support that is available at this point” and added that certain staff
providing “direct, close, personal support and advice” to the
new King and Queen consort would not see their jobs threatened.
