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Reports Say Prince William Will Drop Sandringham’s Hierarchical £5 Gift Ritual as King

The unconfirmed reports align with William’s comments about a more relaxed reign, reflecting his family’s preference for informal holiday gatherings.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets citing Daily Mail insiders report that the trestle-table exchange of £5 joke gifts by seniority would be stripped of its pecking-order element when William eventually hosts Sandringham as king.
  • Sources indicate the playful gift swap would likely remain without ranking, framed as part of a broader tilt toward a less formal, streamlined monarchy.
  • No official confirmation has been issued by the Palace, though William has said on Apple TV that future changes under his reign would be “nothing dramatic.”
  • Coverage details similar hierarchy at Sandringham—black-tie seating by rank and bedroom assignments favoring senior royals—which William is said to dislike, including how it affects cousin Zara Tindall.
  • Separate reporting says Andrew Mountbatten Windsor is not expected at Sandringham this Christmas, and Tom Parker Bowles and Laura Lopes say they will skip the family celebration this year.