The potential return of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to their roles as working royals could pose significant challenges for King Charles, according to royal experts. Despite Prince Harry's expressed interest in reconciling with his family, their reintroduction into the fold is fraught with complications, both public and financial.
Cameron Walker, a royal correspondent for GB News, addressed the possible ramifications of the Sussexes' return during a recent episode of the network’s podcast, "The Royal Record." Walker emphasized that the decision would not solely rest with King Charles, given the prevailing public sentiment towards the couple in the United Kingdom.
"Opinion polls on both sides of the Atlantic show that Harry and Meghan are no longer popular in the UK," Walker noted. "That's a big problem because if they become working members of the Royal Family again, it's taxpayers -- it's us as the public -- who would have to pay for their security, the staff travel, and all the rest of it."
Walker pointed out that the logistical and financial implications of reintroducing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as working royals could generate public backlash. The British public's willingness to support their return financially is questionable, given the couple's controversial departure and subsequent criticisms of the royal family.
Moreover, Walker expressed doubts about Meghan Markle's interest in resuming royal duties. "I don't think Meghan wants to be a working member of the Royal Family again because clearly she disliked it so much last time," he said. "She talked about it at length during the Oprah Winfrey interview -- so I don't see that happening."
Prince Harry's potential return is also clouded by complexities. Reports earlier this year suggested that Harry offered to temporarily return to royal duties following his father’s cancer diagnosis in February. However, Walker believes this does not indicate a genuine desire to reintegrate into royal life permanently.
"I think he's trying to go it alone. I don't think this is him trying to become a working member of the Royal Family again," Walker explained. "I think he is pretty happy in California from the messages we are getting from him, but clearly, it is a huge frustration."
The timing of this discussion is particularly critical as the royal family faces temporary reductions in its ranks. Both King Charles and Kate Middleton are undergoing cancer treatment, and Princess Anne was recently hospitalized due to a horse-related incident. Despite these absences, Walker does not see Harry's potential return as a solution to the immediate staffing gaps within the royal family.
"In terms of becoming working members of the Royal Family again, I don't think it would be up to King Charles," Walker reiterated. "Look at the opinion polls of Harry and Meghan on both sides of the Atlantic."
The expert's commentary underscores the broader issues surrounding the Sussexes' return. The couple's departure from royal duties and subsequent public statements have significantly altered their relationship with both the monarchy and the British public. Any move to reinstate them would require careful consideration of public opinion and the financial implications.