Queen Elizabeth Waited To Promote Kate Middleton As She Didn't Want To 'Antagonize' Prince Harry & Meghan Markle, Insider Claims
Kate Middleton is set to take over Prince Harry's role as patron of the Rugby Football Union — but Queen Elizabeth waited to announce the promotion, as she didn't want to "antagonize" Harry and Meghan Markle, an insider claimed.
According to the Daily Mail, the change will happen "imminently."
When Meghan, 40, and Harry, 37, decided to move to the United States in 2020, they gave up their patronages, which included England Rugby, The Royal National Theatre and the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
"Following conversations with the Duke, the Queen has written confirming that in stepping away from the work of the royal family it is not possible to continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service," read a statement from the palace. "The honorary military appointments and royal patronages held by the duke and duchess will therefore be returned to Her Majesty before being redistributed among working members of the royal family."
At the time, the couple hit back with a statement, saying, "We can all live a life of service. Service is universal."
It's no surprise that Kate is taking on more duties, as Prince Andrew is currently embroiled in a scandal and Meghan and Harry no longer live in the U.K.
"In recent years, we’ve seen her leadership in the wake of Megxit, throughout which she’s kept calm and carried on," expert Katie Nicholl noted to Closer. "I think this year she’ll come into her own even more, especially as it’ll be a tough year for the royals."
"Harry and Meghan’s interviews this year have caused chaos for the royals, and Harry’s new memoir – due out next year – will likely reveal even more intimate details about the royal family, and cause further issues," Nicholl continued. "And Andrew’s court case will too. Kate will step up and I know the Queen hugely values her support, and will rely on her more than ever."
