Prince Harry’s return to the UK to be with King Charles has been hailed as a step in the right direction towards ending the Royal Family feud.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told Express.co.uk that the Duke of Sussex was making the “appropriate” choice not to bring Meghan Markle, but the situation could lead to a “healing” for the Firm.
He said: “It is appropriate in the circumstances that he [Harry] comes alone. The concern is natural for any son in a situation like this.
“In any such situation, obviously the first thought of everyone is for the King’s health. Millions will be familiar with the threat of cancer. They will respond to his openness over his illnesses and will wish him well, both nationally and internationally. Healing family rifts can come from a situation like this.”
The King personally told both of his sons the news about his diagnosis before Buckingham Palace released the statement, with Harry making the decision to fly back from California as soon as possible.
A spokesperson for the Duke confirmed that he had spoken to the King and would be travelling to the UK to see him as soon as possible.
He was pictured arriving at London Heathrow airport this afternoon.
Meghan is staying at home in Montecito with their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, and it is not known if they will come over later to join him.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told GB News that although the King and Harry might be able to patch things up, it may be harder for Prince William.
Discussing Harry’s return she said: “I think it’s just a son’s reaction to some pretty shocking news. Could this lead to a reconciliation? Not only with his dad, I think that’s pretty much on the cards, but possibly with William. William does need his brother right now.
“That’s going to be a tricker relationship to patch up. We can but hope, it didn’t happen when The Queen died, we thought it possibly would. It got worse if anything, but this time I think the hope must be a little higher.”
With the King out of action and Harry back in the UK, at least temporarily, rumours have swirled that the Duke may even take on some royal duties to help his father out.
The King has his Counsellors of State who can be called on to act when he is unwell or otherwise incapacitated, with Queen Camilla currently leading the way.
Prince William too is returning to work after taking some time off to be with his family following Princess Kate’s own health scare, which will see her recovering until Easter.
Other royals likely to be more in the spotlight include Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, with the former handing out honours at Windsor Castle today just hours after learning of the King’s condition.
