Queen Elizabeth II reportedly required a witness to be present during phone calls with Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, following his and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back as senior royals in 2020. This practice, detailed in Hugo Vickers’ new book, was implemented to ensure “a record of what was said.”

Growing Distance and Concerns

Sources indicate a growing distance between the Sussexes and their neighbors in Montecito, California, with reports suggesting locals are “avoiding them.” This follows Prince Harry’s 2020 move to California and the subsequent publication of his memoir, Spare, which detailed personal experiences and royal family dynamics.

Protecting the Monarchy

According to Vickers, a longtime friend of the royal family, the Queen’s decision to have a lady-in-waiting present during calls stemmed from a desire for “moral support and protection.” The Queen was reportedly “on her guard” with Prince Harry due to the distress caused by his and Meghan’s actions. She wanted to ensure a documented account of their conversations.

Advice on Marriage and Wedding Day Disagreements

Vickers’ book also reveals the Queen advised Prince Harry to delay his marriage to Meghan Markle, suggesting a one-year waiting period. However, Prince Harry did not heed this advice, marrying Markle in May 2018 at St. George’s Cathedral in Windsor.

Criticism of the Wedding and Frogmore Cottage

The Queen reportedly expressed reservations about Markle’s wedding gown, describing it as “too white and with ungainly shoulders.” There were also reported incidents of tension regarding Markle’s behavior. Vickers details an instance where the Queen “ticked off” Markle for being rude to a gardener at Windsor Castle.

Limited Access and Final Meetings

Following the couple’s departure from royal duties, the Queen reportedly became “monosyllabic” during phone calls with Harry. She also refused to meet with the couple privately when they brought their daughter, Princess Lilibet, to the UK for the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June 2022. A lady-in-waiting was present during that visit as well.

A Changing Relationship

The Queen’s concerns extended to Prince Harry’s new life in the US, reportedly questioning, “And now Harry has opted out, and for what? To be a carer for Archie?” Despite a previously close relationship, the Queen increasingly sought protection and documentation in her interactions with her grandson as tensions rose within the royal family.