Why was the foremost Duke in the UK, responsible for orchestrating both the King’s Coronation and Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, overlooked for a New Year honor?

Title: Duke of Norfolk Overlooked in New Year’s Honours List

Honour Exclusions and Expectations

In the recent unveiling of the King’s New Year Honours, numerous figures instrumental in the success of King Charles’s Coronation took center stage.

Ranging from the orchestrator of the ceremony’s music to the meticulous planners behind the scenes, the list encompassed a diverse array of individuals.

Given Edward Fitzalan-Howard’s pivotal role as the orchestrator behind not just the Coronation but also Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, insiders anticipated his inclusion.

Yet, despite spending two decades intricately planning these significant events in his capacity as Earl Marshal, the 18th Duke of Norfolk found himself notably absent from the roster of 1,200 honored for their outstanding contributions.

Potential Snubs and Speculations

The absence of the 67-year-old Duke, conspicuous within this prestigious list, might appear as a snub, echoing a similar disregard during Charles’s birthday honours earlier in the year.

Reports hinted at a discord between the two men, insinuating clashes over reforms aimed at modernizing the Coronation.

Further rumors suggested the Duke’s sidelining, possibly stemming from a six-month driving ban due to traffic violations, which some viewed as a liability, hindering his recognition.

Future Prospects and Royal Insights

Despite this exclusion, hope remains intact within royal circles.

Insights from within suggest a possible delay rather than a permanent dismissal.

Historical precedence offers a glimmer of hope, citing the Order of the Garter traditionally conferred on St George’s Day.

The Duke’s predecessors received significant honors for their organizational roles in previous coronations, raising questions about why Charles couldn’t have extended a similar recognition.

However, the complexities of the honours system dictate prerequisites, such as the need to attain the status of a Knight of the Garter before qualifying for higher distinctions.

Personal Perspectives and Misconceptions

Amidst these intricacies, the Duke, residing at Arundel Castle in West Sussex, seems content with his current accolades.

His perspective on the matter contrasts with external expectations, indicating satisfaction with his existing Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order received in 2022.

He asserts that there is no higher recognition the King could bestow upon him and denies any implications of being snubbed, emphasizing the King’s appreciation conveyed through a heartfelt letter post-Coronation.

Personal Transitions and Controversies

Recent personal shifts within the Duke’s life also drew public attention.

The end of a lengthy marriage followed by a subsequent marriage to Francesca Herbert marked a significant transition.

Despite his ties to the Roman Catholic

Church, which traditionally frowns upon divorce, the Duke’s recent personal choices continue to stir public interest.

Conclusion: The Duke’s Unconventional Position

The Duke of Norfolk’s absence from the New Year’s Honours list, despite his pivotal role in orchestrating significant royal events, remains a point of curiosity and discussion.

Whether seen as a temporary setback or a deliberate oversight, his future prospects for receiving prestigious accolades, particularly the Order of the Garter, remain a subject of speculation and anticipation within royal circles.