Harry’s UK return: Can he repair ties with William?

Prince Harry and Meghan are preparing to return to the UK within weeks, according to reports from the Telegraph and Sun. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are expected to enroll their children in British schools from the autumn term. The move has sparked speculation about their future in Britain, including their residence, security arrangements, and potential resumption of royal duties. However, the most sensitive issue remains Harry's relationship with his brother, Prince William.

The brothers' close bond has deteriorated significantly since Harry and Meghan publicly criticized the royal family and Buckingham Palace. Harry has spoken out about feeling mistreated by palace staff, while the couple has alleged racism within the royal family and criticized the institution of the monarchy. Their return could create new tensions if Harry and Meghan find themselves sharing the public spotlight with William and Catherine.

According to Craig Prescott, an expert on the UK constitution and monarchy, the palace does not want Meghan and Harry's presence in the UK to overshadow the monarchy's work, and there will need to be discussions to accommodate their presence.

Harry himself has expressed a desire for his children to have a British upbringing. He and Meghan are expected to settle at a private, nonroyal property outside London and will not return to official royal duties, having stepped down in 2020 before moving to California. The decision to return also coincides with King Charles III's ongoing treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.

Recent developments, including a recent meeting at King Charles III's Highgrove estate, appear to have paved the way for Harry and Meghan's return. Harry has repeatedly expressed a wish for reconciliation, and a recent meeting with King Charles, Meghan, and their children seemed to go well. However, the future of their relationship with William remains uncertain.

While Charles may be willing to repair relations with his younger son, Winston may prove more challenging to win over, according to royal historian Ed Owens. Owens believes that William, as the heir to the throne, might publicly forgive his brother, adhering to traditional moral values, despite any lingering personal resentment.