The future of the Royal Family hinges on King Charles and Prince William presenting a united approach regarding Prince Harry's future visits, according to royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams. Fitzwilliams suggests that Prince William is concerned that the Duke of Sussex's presence could potentially overshadow the monarchy's ongoing work.
Fitzwilliams stated that while King Charles may wish to connect with his grandchildren Archie and Lilibet, who reside in the U.S., Prince William appears more cautious. "The most disastrous thing that could happen to the monarchy would be a falling out between King Charles and Prince William, who, together with his family, is its future," Fitzwilliams told the Daily Mail.
He noted that although the Sussexes have remained personally silent, media briefings have continued, indicating plans for future visits. "They want the King to see more of his grandchildren which is totally understandable," Fitzwilliams said, adding that arrangements for accommodation and security would hopefully improve.
This coordinated approach could potentially lead to King Charles attending next year's Invictus Games in Birmingham, as he is the head of the armed forces and the event supports a significant military charity. Fitzwilliams also pointed to Prince William's public activities, such as playing polo with Catherine's support on the day the Sussexes met the King, as a sign of "public disdain" for his brother.
"William is likely to be concerned about the effects of future visits. These are likely to overshadow the valuable work the monarchy is doing in the media," Fitzwilliams explained. He suggested that private visits, without public knowledge, would be more beneficial, though this approach does not align with the Sussexes' typical methods.
Fitzwilliams also touched upon the possibility of a revival of the "half in half out" arrangement previously rejected by Queen Elizabeth II, noting that agreeing on practicalities could be challenging. He stressed the importance of Charles and William maintaining a united front as the King's relationship with Harry evolves.
"When there are disputes between families, reconciliation should always be welcomed. However, it often comes at a cost," he stated. Fitzwilliams also highlighted the approaching 30th anniversary of Diana's death and the potential interest from Netflix in any related commemorations involving the Sussexes.
"The optics of the way the King and William are handling this issue are fuelling reports, backed up by royal author Tina Brown last September, of serious divisions between them," Fitzwilliams observed. He concluded that "it is essential for the future of the monarchy that they speak with one voice on substantive issues," as divisions are damaging and confusing for the public.
He suggested that Queen Camilla and Catherine might play a role in ensuring a more unified public presentation, even if their priorities differ from those of the Sussexes. "If it was ensured that future visits by the Sussexes were private, that would obviously help," he added. Royal author Tina Brown also commented that Charles's relationship with Harry is a source of heartache, compounded by the fact that his relationship with William is, at best, civil. Brown also suggested that some in William's circle viewed the recent meeting at Highgrove as a reward for Harry's alleged manipulation.