A new YouGov poll reveals that fewer than a quarter of Britons believe Prince Harry and Meghan Markle should relocate to the United Kingdom. The survey of over 5,000 individuals found that only 21 percent of the British public support the couple's return, while 33 percent oppose it. A significant portion, 45 percent, remained unsure about whether the Sussexes should move back.
The report of the couple's potential return surfaced last night, with sources suggesting an 'extended period' in the duke's home country. Seven-year-old Archie and five-year-old Lilibet have reportedly been enrolled in a British school, although the family's specific living arrangements remain unclear.
This potential move comes six years after Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior members of the royal family. Since their departure, Harry has spoken openly about his estrangement from his brother, Prince William, and has made accusations against King Charles and Queen Camilla.
The poll indicated a generational divide in public opinion. Among those aged 65 and older, only 20 percent believe Harry and Meghan should return to the UK, with a stark 47 percent expressing opposition. In contrast, 24 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds hold the same negative view.
Sources insist that the Sussexes' return is not part of a plan to re-enter the royal fold. King Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment, was informed of the potential move on Sunday, three days before it became public. He is understood to welcome the opportunity for more private and personal time with his grandchildren, though the couple's status as private individuals will remain unchanged.
Harry was seen in Washington on Wednesday evening, shortly after news of his potential British return was reported. He had already been scheduled to attend a WellChild Awards event in the UK next month, with arrangements made for him to stay at Buckingham Palace.
The couple's departure from royal duties in January 2020 led to them establishing a permanent home in California. Their exit followed earlier decisions, such as setting up their own household separate from William and Kate in March 2019. Public opinion regarding the couple has seen a decline, with a recent poll indicating that only 22 percent of Britons view Meghan positively, compared to 65 percent who hold an unfavorable opinion. Harry's positive approval rating stands at 33 percent, with 58 percent viewing him negatively.
The Sussexes plan to retain their homes in Montecito and Portugal, and Meghan intends to continue managing her ventures, such as As Ever, from their new base. The couple married in 2018, and were once referred to as part of the 'Fab Four' alongside William and Catherine, the then-Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.