The Queen says she is ‘proud of how Meghan has so quickly become one of the family’
As a patriotic monarchist, I disagree with the decision made by Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex (a title that will lose meaning given their intention to spend most of their time in North America).
For one thing, I dislike the fact that the Queen was not properly informed beforehand. Tension or no tension, she is our Head of State. Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex work for her, as well as being family members. The Queen has had another “Annus Horribilis”, what with Prince Philip’s illness and Prince Andrew’s disgraceful connections.
Apparently, the Duke and Duchess claimed they could not come home in the summer because of their baby being too young to fly. Yet they have flown with said baby to Canada, and previously to a party with Elton John (by private jet). I dislike this kind of conduct.
Secondly, I must note that the Duchess of Sussex has only held Senior duties since May 2018, culminating in around 20 months of work. This is dramatically less time than surrounding family members. I therefore cannot comprehend her reported claim that she and Prince Harry feel “tethered” by their responsibilities.
Thirdly, the fractured relationship between Prince Harry and Prince William troubles me. Some reports say that Prince Harry’s character has changed, which is causing a wedge between him and his brother. I have to ask whether moving abroad-- particularly in this manner-- is the best response to Prince Harry’s admitted troubles.
The Prince’s biographer, Angela Levin, has stated that he rarely sees his old friends, another troubling sign.
Fourthly, the entrance into the Royal Family was always a declaration of duty to Britain and the British people. While anyone can sympathise with the strain of scrutiny, I will point out that our Head of State has ruled for 64 years. Duty requires grit. The Queen has shouldered more than most members of the Royal Family will ever have to face.
I don’t think that many can be faulted for feeling somewhat cheated by this decision, particularly in the way it was handled. While not sharing that sentiment, I am disappointed.
Fifthly, I see a jarring discrepancy in copyrighting items for a brand named “SussexRoyal” when in fact most of their time will be spent in North America, and given that they no longer intend to carry out duties associated with being a “SussexRoyal”.
Obviously this decision has been made, and the Queen has permitted it. We can only hope then, that the remaining family members continue with their Royal duties, which bring so much prestige and economic benefit to Britain. The Sussexes may speak of a “progressive new role in this institution”, but they have benefited enormously from Royal patronage and used it to help good causes in the same way that other royals have done.
Just because they have taken a different path and call it “progressive” does not mean that those who value Royal history and traditions are backwards or oppressive.
