King Charles forced to use power to make Prince William do his royal duties, takes ‘heartbreaking’ decision to save the crown

Prince William has faced criticism for not being as dedicated to his duties as he could or should be as a member of the royal family. Even his father, King Charles has had to step in to compel his son to attend certain events.

Charles’ youngest son, Prince Harry, is of course not an option when it comes to royal duties. The Duke of Sussex has been out of royal action for years now. It has left the king with limited options when it comes to saving the crown. Despite reportedly longing to have a relationship with his grandchildren, the monarch has made the “painful decision” to focus on the future of the firm which involves him heavily relying on William to pick up the slack.

Prince William is seen as ‘work shy’

While King Charles works himself to the bone trying to save the monarchy, his son, the future king of the U.K. has been heavily criticized for not doing enough work as a member of the family. Last year William and his wife, Kate Middleton, were not seen at events a lot on account of Middleton’s cancer diagnosis. But, according to the Mirror, even before that, the prince’s work shyness was being called out by news outlets.

While royals such as Charles and Princess Anne worked most days as expected, William and his wife were seen significantly less which has frustrated palace staff. However, the prince was still able to find the time to enjoy trips abroad last year.

William and Kate have not shied away from defying royal tradition and putting their own family first, but that is just not something Charles is willing to do. The king is putting the crown first, and if that means he has to practically force his son to attend certain engagements, or cut off his youngest son and grandchildren then that is a sacrifice he is willing to make.

King Charles uses his power

Last month it was reported that the king used his authority to compel William to attend Pope Francis’ funeral despite the fact the prince was apparently reluctant to go. Recently it does look as though his attitude has changed somewhat. William has been seen at more engagements and experts believe that he may be trying to shed his old work-shy image.

Speaking to the Scottish Express historian, Ed Owens, noted, “William has sometimes been seen as work-shy, but we see him gravitating toward bigger, more media-friendly events.” Perhaps Charles’ decision to push his son has brought about this change in attitude. William has been seen at more and more global events such as the re-opening of Notre-Dame last year. However, sources have suggested the visit was under duress.