MPs call for change to allow Kate’s daughter to be Queen
MPs today launched a fresh attempt to change the laws that discriminate against any daughter of Prince William and Kate Middleton in succession to the throne.
The move would end the 300-year-old rule of primogeniture under which a woman in the line to the throne is automatically superseded by a younger male sibling.
Keith Vaz, Labour chairman of the home affairs select committee, introduced a Commons motion to bring in a Bill "to remove any distinction between the sexes in determining the succession to the Crown". Mr Vaz said: "Britain is an egalitarian country and this should be reflected in our succession rules.
"Most mothers would be astonished if their sons were given preference over their daughters.
"I'm sure Miss Middleton would be in the same position."
Given that there is currently no dispute over future succession —with Prince Charles set to take the throne followed by Prince William — ministers believe it would be an opportune time to reform the law.
* Boris Johnson came under growing pressure today to give people free travel on the day of the royal wedding. Eleven MPs have signed a motion tabled by Ilford South Labour MP Mike Gapes urging the Mayor to drop Tube and bus fares on April 29.
