Calls for Prince William to extend an olive branch to his brother Prince Harry are "absolute rubbish," according to royal editor Rebecca English. Speaking on Palace Confidential, English expressed frustration with the ongoing narrative that the Prince of Wales should "be the bigger man" and initiate reconciliation.
English argued that Prince Harry's behavior since stepping back from royal duties, a period she described as "nasty" and "vindictive," has created an environment where estrangement is justifiable. She believes William should not face judgment if he chooses not to seek reconciliation with his brother. "If a sibling had done to me what Harry has done to William, in terms of attacking him personally, his wife, his family and the institution he works for, I would never speak to them again," English stated, emphasizing that people should respect William's decision.
The brothers have reportedly not spoken since the late Queen's funeral in September 2022. Prince Harry, along with his wife Meghan and their children, recently arrived in the UK, with their children expected to start school in the Cotswolds in September.
During the discussion, the topic of taxpayer-funded security for Harry and Meghan was also raised. Prince Harry lost a Court of Appeal challenge regarding his police protection in May 2025. His security was reduced in 2020 after he ceased being a working royal and moved abroad.
Ailsa Anderson, former press secretary to Queen Elizabeth II, cautioned that providing the couple with full taxpayer-funded protection would likely anger the public, especially given the current cost of living challenges. However, Alison Boshoff, Editor-at-Large for the Daily Mail, countered that the security threats faced by Harry, as a royal and a veteran, are significant enough to warrant protection, regardless of public opinion. "It's not a popularity contest," Boshoff said, adding that the issue will require careful handling by Buckingham Palace.