Prince Harry and Meghan spark ‘bemusement’ with ‘unexpected wish’ for Archie and Lilibet

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly want to leave options open in the future for their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet – and those in royal circles have reacted

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s unexpected wish for Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet has reportedly sparked bemusement in royal circles. The Sussexes dramatically quit as working royals to carve out a new life in California – but it has been reported that they don’t want to rule royal life for their children.

Insiders close to the Sussexes previously said they want Archie and Lilibet to retain their titles and HRH styles so they can choose to become working royals if they so wish when they are adults. It came after the source spoke out and claimed the Sussexes feared passports for their children were being held up due to the use of their royal titles.

But in a new report in the Sunday Times, it is claimed there is ‘bemusement’ in royal circles by this plan and that working royal roles for the youngsters in the reign of Prince William is ‘unlikely’.

It comes as those close to William have reportedly noticed a marked shift when it comes to his attitude toward his estranged brother.

A friend told the publication: “What has struck me the most recently is that he just doesn’t mention it at all. It used to be that the family stuff was taking up a lot of space in his head, it was a very close relationship and he was very upset. But he’s not letting it get to him at all any more. It is a change. It’s sad, but it’s a much healthier space for him to be at.”

In recent months Meghan has been sharing more and more of her children online after setting up her own Instagram account at the start of the year.

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In recent weeks, the children have featured in an intimate family video of a trip to video as well as in a Father’s Day tribute for their dad, Harry.

And today, Lilibet has made yet another appearance in a brand new reel shared by mum Meghan. The clip takes viewers on a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Meghan preparing for the second drop of her As Ever products.

It shows Meghan practising her calligraphy, picking raspberries and other fruit from her garden, harvesting honey and exploring the garden with Lilibet. Meghan says: “A little behind the scenes of @aseverofficial. Hope you enjoy your treats when they arrive this week!”

The Duchess restocked her website with a number of new items, including a “Limited edition orange blossom honey” on sale for 28 US dollars (£20) – but all sold out within hours.

Meghan had promised some “delicious surprises” as she teased, earlier this week, that she would be offering some new products on her As Ever site. Also available was apricot spread in “keepsake packaging” and a crepe mix, both £10 each, flower sprinkles for £11 and a range of herbal teas at £9 each.

She also announced she is launching her own wine, with her rose, described as having “soft notes of stone fruit, gentle minerality, and a lasting finish”, available to buy next month.