How the new royal baby will affect the British royal family line of succession

The announcement that Kate Middleton has given birth to the third royal baby - a boy - has made world headlines.

However, it's not just the Cambridges who will be affected by the little prince's birth. In fact, the whole British royal line of succession will be altered. 

The little prince is fifth in line to the throne after grandfather Prince Charles, dad Prince William, and elder siblings Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

The Cambridges are now a family of five. Image: Getty

Baby #3’s arrival has some interesting secondary impacts on the royal line of succession, especially for Prince Harry.

The 32-year-old will drops sixth in line, meaning his royal duties may ease as his nieces/nephews grow older. 

Princess Charlotte will hold her position in the line of succession. (Image: Getty)

New legislation, introduced in October 2011, put an end to the tradition of male children taking precedent over their sisters in royal succession. 

This means Charlotte is the first female royal to hold her position in the line to the throne upon the birth of a male sibling. 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are now proud parents to a brood of three. (Image: Getty)

The news of the Duchess of Cambridge’s pregnancy was announced in September 2017 by Kensington Palace.

The 35-year-old was forced to cancel a public appearance due to Hyperemesis Gravidarum - the “acute morning sickness” she also suffered while pregnant with both her elder children.

We can't wait for royal baby #3's colour-matching outfits. (Image: Getty)

“The Queen and members of both families are delighted with the news,” the palace statement read.