Buckingham Palace employs a detailed risk management protocol for meetings between King Charles III and his son, Prince Harry, according to royal insider Kinsey Schofield. This strategy aims to protect the monarchy's interests, a shift from prioritizing personal relationships, Schofield told Page Six.
Under this protocol, the King's private secretaries are prepared to intervene if a conversation becomes difficult or a request is problematic. They may end the meeting by citing the King's next engagement and the need for travel time. Additionally, household staff, such as housemaids or butlers, might intentionally remain in the room during meetings, serving as subtle witnesses.
"It is the King and his courtiers who have carefully strategized how to engage with Prince Harry, often ensuring there are subtle witnesses in the room," Schofield stated. This approach has reportedly been in place for years, predating Queen Elizabeth II's death in September 2022. Schofield claimed that similar protocols, involving aides or trusted friends being present during meetings and phone calls, were also used during the late Queen's time.
The palace's current perspective, according to Schofield, is that "Buckingham Palace now approaches every interaction with Prince Harry through the lens of protecting the institution rather than preserving the relationship." This is informed by a belief within royal circles that many of Harry's past decisions have prioritized his own interests over those of the family, leading to a difficulty in rebuilding trust. The palace views past experiences, which have sometimes resulted in public disclosures or competing narratives following interactions with Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, as necessitating caution.
King Charles has reportedly demonstrated a capacity to steer conversations away from contentious topics, particularly those involving money or sensitive family issues. Schofield suggested that the idea of the King needing Queen Camilla to shield him from his son does not align with his past actions.
Queen Camilla reportedly has limited interest in engaging directly with Prince Harry and Meghan, focusing on supporting the King without revisiting past conflicts.
Prince Harry and his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are expected to visit the UK next month to meet with King Charles. While Meghan Markle is also anticipated to travel to the UK, her presence at the family meeting remains uncertain. Prince Harry's team has raised concerns about the provision of adequate security during the visit, highlighting that the safety of his family is a primary concern given their loss of royal security privileges in 2020. Harry is reportedly exploring all available options to ensure a safe trip.