King Charles’ brother’s ‘half in, half out’ arrangement that couldn’t save Harry and Meghan

Veronique Hawksworth and Brigid Brown’s recent article dated June 5th, 2024, delves into the evolving dynamics of royal duties, spotlighting Prince Harry’s openness to a ‘part-time’ role amid King Charles’s health concerns, a proposition that echoes past debates within the monarchy.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s earlier desire for a ‘part-time’ royal status was famously declined by Queen Elizabeth II in 2020, despite historical precedents such as Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh’s initial ‘half in, half out’ arrangement post-marriage in 1999. At that time, Edward pursued a career in film production while Sophie worked in public relations, a period described by royal commentator Rachel Burchfield during an episode of Podcast Royal as a tentative entry into royal responsibilities before transitioning to full-time duties by 2002.

The ‘half in, half out’ model resurfaced as a potential compromise for Harry and Meghan following their relocation from the UK in 2020 and subsequent withdrawal from official royal duties. However, their request was not granted, leading to ongoing discussions about the monarchy’s flexibility and adaptability in modern times, as noted by reports from Express US.

Meanwhile, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie continue to navigate a ‘half in, half out’ status, maintaining private incomes alongside their royal obligations. Recently, their attendance at a Buckingham Palace Garden Party in support of Prince William sparked renewed conversations about equity within the royal family, particularly in light of the differential treatment received by Harry and Meghan.

Rachel Burchfield offered insights into the complexities of these arrangements, pointing out distinctions between Edward and Sophie’s trajectory and the Sussexes’ proposal. While Edward and Sophie eventually committed to full-time royal duties, Harry and Meghan aimed to curtail their responsibilities while retaining certain privileges, such as security provisions, a distinction that factored into the Queen’s decision-making.

Looking forward, Burchfield speculated on King Charles’s likely adherence to his late mother’s guidelines, anticipating continuity in royal protocols despite the evolving landscape of 2024. She expressed regret that recent developments, including a streamlined monarchy and sporadic royal absences, haven’t accommodated potential roles for figures like Beatrice and Eugenie as part-time royals, even on a temporary basis.