Sir Clive Alderton, the King and Queen's principal private secretary, is to retire next year after his 60th birthday, according to reports. Royal insider and author Lady Colin Campbell has said the development is not necessarily a good thing for Prince Harry, who gave Sir Clive the nickname "The Wasp" in his memoir Spare.
The Duke of Sussex was less-than-complimentary about Sir Clive in his memoir, and his replacement is yet to be revealed. It is believed the role will go to Theo Rycroft.
Lady Colin Campbell's warning
Speaking to Samara Gill on TalkTV, Lady Colin Campbell denied the new appointment would be a good thing for the estranged royal, despite the host speculating: "Harry might actually triumph out of this."
"I don't think so for a second. First of all, Clive Alderton hasn't left yet; he's not leaving for a year. Secondly, all Harry is going to need to do is hear no from Theo Ryecroft four times before he decides he's the latest enemy, and so that's going to inevitably happen," she said.
She added: "Harry would like to believe that his father and his grandmother would love to do whatever he wants, but they are prevented by mean, horrid members of staff."
"The mean, horrid members of staff implement their wishes," she said, indicating the new appointment would have a similar issue with Harry. She ended by saying: "The King doesn’t want Harry back."
Reconciliation obstacle denied
It is believed Harry saw Sir Clive as an obstacle to reconciling with the King over the last few years. This was denied by a royal insider, who said the only ones that could directly influence any reconciliation is Harry and the monarch themselves.
Palace confirms retirement
Sir Clive, the King and Queen's principal private secretary, will leave his role in May next year but will continue supporting the royal couple in a "less formal capacity".
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "I know Their Majesties are deeply grateful to Sir Clive for his tireless support and wise counsel over the years, and for the enduring loyalty that will ensure a smooth transition to his successor."
In a message to staff, Sir Clive said: "It has been the greatest imaginable honour to serve the King and Queen in my present role through such historic times and with unforgettable humour along the way. That support will continue, in a less formal capacity, for all of my life."
Role in the King's accession
The royal aide played a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth transition of the then Prince of Wales to his role as King in the years leading up to accession in 2022 and the period afterwards.
He has kept pace with Charles, described as a "complete workaholic" by his wife, and over the years helped turn his ideas into action.
