Boris Johnson’s Claims About Prince Harry: A Closer Look
In a recent revelation from his upcoming memoir, Unleashed, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has stirred the pot with claims regarding his alleged involvement in Prince Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties. The narrative suggests that Johnson was asked by Buckingham Palace to deliver a “manly pep talk” to the Duke of Sussex in an effort to persuade him to remain in the UK. However, this assertion has been met with skepticism from various sources, including Buckingham Palace itself.
The Context of the Meeting
The backdrop of this intriguing claim dates back to January 2020, a pivotal moment for the British royal family. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had announced their intention to step back from royal duties, a decision that sent shockwaves through the monarchy and the public alike. Amidst this turmoil, Johnson recounts an informal 20-minute meeting with Prince Harry on January 20, 2020, during a UK-Africa investment summit in London. According to Johnson, officials from both Buckingham Palace and Downing Street believed that a last-minute intervention might sway the couple’s decision.
Johnson’s Perspective
In Unleashed, Johnson describes the situation as “a ridiculous business,” expressing his doubts about the effectiveness of such a pep talk. He portrays the task as “totally hopeless,” suggesting that he felt ill-equipped to influence Harry’s deeply personal decision. This candid reflection adds a layer of humor to an otherwise serious situation, as Johnson grapples with the absurdity of being enlisted for such a delicate matter.
Buckingham Palace’s Response
Despite Johnson’s claims, sources close to the Duke of Sussex have confirmed that he did indeed suggest that both Harry and Meghan remain in the UK. However, these same sources have also clarified that Buckingham Palace did not formally request Johnson’s intervention. Reports from The Telegraph indicate that no specific request was made by Downing Street either, casting doubt on the former Prime Minister’s narrative.
The Aftermath of the Meeting
The day following the meeting with Johnson, Prince Harry flew to Canada to reunite with Meghan and their son, Archie. This swift departure underscored the urgency of their decision to step back from royal life. Just a day earlier, Harry had delivered a poignant speech at a Sentebale event, expressing his sadness over the situation and stating that he had “no other option” but to make this choice.
The Royal Family’s Internal Struggles
The decision to step back was not made lightly. A week prior to Johnson’s meeting, Prince Harry had participated in the Sandringham Summit alongside Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles, and Prince William. During these discussions, Harry revealed in his memoir, Spare, that tensions ran high, with his brother reportedly “screaming and shouting” at him. This family conflict highlights the emotional weight of Harry’s decision and the complexities involved in navigating royal expectations.
Harry’s New Chapter
Since stepping back from royal duties, Prince Harry has focused on building a new life in California, where he continues his charitable work. His upcoming visit to Lesotho marks a significant return to his philanthropic roots, as he aims to address youth prosperity and challenges related to education and employment. Meghan Markle will not accompany him on this trip, allowing Harry to reconnect with Prince Seeiso, with whom he co-founded the charity Sentebale in 2006.
Conclusion
Boris Johnson’s claims about his role in Prince Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties add an intriguing layer to the ongoing narrative surrounding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. While Johnson’s memoir promises to provide further insights into this saga, the responses from Buckingham Palace and other sources suggest that the reality may be more complex than the former Prime Minister’s account. As Prince Harry continues to carve out his path in the United States, the echoes of his royal past remain a topic of fascination and debate.