![]() ![]() The redevelopment went overbudget by around $15 million, which its operator attributed to supply chain difficulties during the pandemic, such as bringing the custom Switzerland-made tramcars to Hong Kong. The Peak Tram closed for upgrades in June 2021, a period when the Chinese finance hub's strict border controls - in line with Beijing's zero-Covid strategy - all but wiped out its tourism industry. The latest makeover brought more spacious tramcars that accommodate 210 passengers, a full overhaul of its rail systems and a redesigned terminus at the heart of Hong Kong's central business district. The historic funicular, which dates back to 1888 and offers panoramic views of Hong Kong Island's famous skyline as it ascends to Victoria Peak, used to draw over six million visitors a year, according to its operator. To paraphrase the Chronicles of Narnia: once a Duke or a Duchess, always a Duke or a Duchess.The Peak Tram, Hong Kong's famed public transport and a popular tourist draw, reopened Saturday after a year-long $102 million facelift even as the city's coronavirus curbs continue to keep overseas visitors at bay. But, for now, it seems unlikely, despite the occasional radio show opinion poll or Piers Morgan rage session. If so, they may be advised to do the same for other members of the family who have stood accused of far worse things than Harry and Meghan. Will Harry and Meghan always be the Duke and Duchess of Sussex? It is not impossible that the Queen, her successor Charles and his successor William might one day decree that they must relinquish them, taking back that gift like the aforementioned proverbial bread bin. The loss of the HRH title follows the February 2021 announcement that 'following conversations with The Duke, The Queen has written confirming that in stepping away from the work of The Royal Family it is not possible to continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service.The honorary military appointments and Royal patronages held by The Duke and Duchess will therefore be returned to Her Majesty, before being redistributed among working members of The Royal Family.' So, hypothetically, if Harry and Meghan split up, Meghan would retain her right to be known as The Duchess of Sussex until the day she remarried, if she ever decided to do so. But she lost that right and title when she remarried in 2016. Remember how Luann de Lesseps of The Real Housewives franchise used to be known as The Countess? This wasn't an affectation: she was actually married to a French count. Still confused? Well, let's turn to reality TV to help. A new union before the eyes of God would be enough to sever a woman's link to the family. But Diana and Sarah would have lost their titles if they had remarried. Indeed, Diana remained Princess of Wales until her death: she did not lose her title nor revert to Diana Spencer. She still goes by that title, despite divorcing Prince Andrew decades ago, and has published books under that name (without the mass hysteria we've seen this time around). Those confused by the continuing use of the Duke and Duchess titles might do well to look back at Sarah, Duchess of York. ![]() What they have lost, however, is the right to use their former HRH titles. Besides, would you ask your married friends to return the bread bin you bought them as a wedding gift just because you wouldn't see them around anymore? Of course not. Royal sources say that it's 'unlikely' that this would ever happen: the last time individuals lost peerages in this manner was in 1917, and this was for actual treason (in that case, bearing arms against the UK). These titles were given to them by the Queen on their wedding day, and she's not going to take them away: it would require an Act of Parliament, with a statute passed by both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Opting to move to the US, cut fewer ribbons and wear fewer tiaras does not mean that they cease to be members of the family, and they are still entitled to be known by Duke and Duchess. When Harry and Meghan decided to take a step back from their senior royal roles, they did not lose their Duke and Duchess titles. How is she still the Duchess of Sussex even though she and Harry have left the royal family? Why is she not writing the book under the name Meghan Markle? Well, buckle up, and let's take a quick ride through the twisted rules of the royal family. But the announcement also caused some confusion, for her supporters and detractors in equal measure, thanks to one question posed by her author's credit: Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. Naturally, her critics couldn't wait to slam her for daring to add a string to her bow. Fans of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, were thrilled earlier this year to hear the news that the former actress, philanthropist and member of the royal family is releasing a children's book, called The Bench.
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