The Queen has no intention of stepping aside for Prince Charles and insists it is “duty first, nation first, I’m going to be there”, according to sources close to the monarch.

Royal insiders said the Queen, the world’s longest-reigning living monarch, remained as committed as ever to her duty. They dismiss claims that she will request that the Regency Act come into force in the foreseeable future.

Neither Buckingham Palace nor Clarence House is planning for a regency, three separate senior sources told The Sunday Times.

While the Queen may have passed some duties to younger royals, but pledged on her 21st birthday to serve the nation for her ‘whole life’

Palace officials have not commented but refer to the Queen’s pledge “I declare . . . that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service.”

THE TIMES