Norwegian MPs discuss changing regency law

Norwegian parliament members have begun discussions on changing the royal regency law.

Currently, the only royal who can step in as head of state is the heir, but for the first time since 1905, Norway has two heirs over the age of 18.

Crown Prince Haakon and his daughter, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, are both of age, and some Norwegian members of the Storting (parliament) think that both should be able to step in the monarch’s shoes if need be. They brought the proposal forward in parliament on Monday, 30 September.

The Norwegian Constitution states that only the heir to the throne is allowed to step in as regent if the monarch is travelling abroad or on sick leave. If the Crown Prince cannot undertake the role of regent, a member of the government steps in.

Sverre Myrli and five other members of the Storting want to change the law.

Speaking to NRK, Myrli said: “In the vast majority of cases, this will be completely unproblematic. But we can get into situations where the government is dissolved or has to be reformed. Then it will be very unfortunate that it is the government itself that chooses its own successors.”

He also added about the proposal to the change of law: “It is a principled proposal. But in the current situation, we have an heir to the throne in the second generation who is of age, but who cannot step in if needed.”

The change in regency law has support across party lines with members of various political parties signing the proposal.