Prince Harry’s latest move was described as a “clever tactic” which could lead to a future “truce” with King Charles, a former royal staffer has claimed. The Duke of Sussex’s relationship with the Royal Family turned sour after his sensational exit in 2020.
But recently, hopes for a reconciliation sparked after Harry’s aides were seen having a meeting with those of the King in London. Reports even suggested the Duke had offered to disclose his official diary with the royal so that engagements do not clash.
And recently, Harry left a wreath and a letter paying tribute to his late grandfather, Prince Philip, at the National Memorial Arboretum, where the King and Queen appeared for the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.
Harry’s wreath and letter were placed after Charles and Camilla left to avoid distracting from the service, which honoured the sacrifice of World War 2 heroes who fought and died in the Pacific and Far East.
Now former royal butler Grant Harrold, who worked for King Charles for seven years, said Harry’s gesture was “nicely done”.
He told the Mirror: “I think the King would’ve appreciated that he was not trying to hijack the occasion, because that’s what would’ve happened.
“It also shows a bit of diplomacy as well, so maybe this is a sign of Harry trying not to step on his father’s feet and trying to show that he wants to show his respect, especially to Prince Philip.
“Because he adored his grandfather, and there are bits of Harry that are just like Philip.”
He added: “It’s a very clever tactic and I like to think it’s part of this behind-the-scenes truce to move forward.”
Harry, who was thousands of miles away in California, wrote: “For me, this anniversary carries an added layer of meaning.
“My late grandfather, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, served in the Pacific campaign. He spoke with quiet humility about those years, but I know how deeply he respected all who stood beside him in that theatre of war.
“Today, as I think of him, I think also of each of you, of the shared hardships, the bonds forged, and the legacy you leave.”
The late Prince Philip was in Tokyo Bay on board the destroyer HMS Whelp, a warship he served on as second-in-command, when Japanese officials formally signed the surrender on the USS Missouri.
King Charles, who previously spoke publicly about his father’s wartime role on the 75th anniversary in 2020, made no mention of Philip in his audio address to the nation last Friday morning, marking 80 years since VJ Day.
But he did pay tribute to his mentor and great uncle, Earl Mountbatten, who oversaw the defeat of the Japanese offensive towards India as Supreme Allied Commander South East Asia Command.
