Prince William travelled the furthest away from his family since Kate Middleton revealed her cancer diagnosis to carry out two days of official engagements – meanwhile, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been undertaking engagements in Nigeria
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s visit to Nigeria has been referred to as a ‘mini royal tour’ despite the pair famously stepping back from their senior Royal roles in 2020 – but one leading royal expert claims this term would not have “pleased” King Charles or Prince William.
Former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond told OK!: “The King and Prince William are firmly of the belief that you are either in or out of the working Royals. This seems to be a rather strange halfway house. I think both the King and the Prince, and indeed the Government, will want it to be made clear that Harry is not representing either the Royal Family or Britain on this trip.”
Jennie revealed how William appears more at ease with wife Kate Middleton’s cancer recovery, as a key move indicates she’s “feeling stronger every day”. The Prince of Wales embarked on his furthest journey from his family since the Princess of Wales announced her cancer diagnosis, undertaking two days of official duties.
The leading Royal expert believed that this decision is a positive indication that Kate is “feeling stronger every day”.
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William has been in Cornwall in his capacity as the head of the Duchy of Cornwall, highlighting the issue of homelessness with visits to the Nansledan Estate. During his visit, William also met with hospital staff on the Isles of Scilly and participated in an impromptu game of volleyball with young lifeguards on Fistral Beach.
Discussing William’s two-night stay away from home in Cornwall, Jennie said: “It’s great news that William feels relaxed enough to stay away for a night. I’ve no doubt that Catherine’s parents will be staying with her, but even so it must be a step in the right direction. Hopefully Catherine is feeling stronger every day and, with the sun now shining, she’ll be able to enjoy the great outdoors which, for her, has always been restorative.”
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While out and about, William provided an update on the Princess of Wales, stating: “She’s doing well, thanks,” before adding: “The children are very jealous that I am here… Maybe we might come later in the year.”
Prince William’s trip to Cornwall coincided with Prince Harry’s return to the UK for the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games and his subsequent journey to Nigeria with Meghan Markle. Despite previous speculation, Harry did not meet with any Royal family members during his UK visit, including his father, King Charles.
Royal expert Jennie commented on the ongoing feud between the brothers: “I think we have to give up hope that the rift between the brothers will be healed at any time in the near future, or indeed ever.”
She added: “William’s head and heart must be bursting with all that he has on his plate right now: his wife’s cancer treatment, his father’s illness, his children growing up fast, the pressure for him to take on more royal duties, the prospect of becoming King earlier than he might ever have wanted.”
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Jennie believes that dealing with ‘the Harry problem’ is likely too much for William at this point. She said: “Dealing with ‘the Harry problem’ is probably just one step too far for William. I believe he has moved on with his life and has, to all intents and purposes, disowned the brother to whom he was once so close.”