Royal expert Ingrid Sward has said King Charles should privately reach out to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following the arrest of Meghan's father, Thomas Markle Sr, on a federal charge of possessing child pornography.
Thomas Markle Sr was arrested on November 6 after an investigation into suspected child sexual abuse material. He has previously denied wrongdoing.
Meghan's statement on her father's arrest
Meghan made a statement addressing the allegations when they first became public. In it, she said: "I am deeply distressed... my thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed." She said she hoped it could be understood why she had largely cut off contact from her father and did "not allow him to have contact with our children."
The duchess has been estranged from her father since 2018.
King Charles urged to speak privately
Speaking to People Magazine, Ingrid Sward said King Charles, as Harry's father, should reach out to the Sussexes following the revelation about Thomas Markle Sr. She said: "It is a very private matter. It is up to the King to speak to them, but he should only do it privately."
She added: "I am sure he will. Any father would do that."
The royal expert said any response from the palace would require particular sensitivity. It is not known whether King Charles has already spoken to the Sussexes.
Meghan pulls out of Brussels speech
Meghan pulled out of a speech she was set to make alongside Prince Harry in Brussels on November 10 as she "did not feel strong enough" after her father's arrest. The pair travelled to the European Parliament, where they planned to address leaders about child online safety. Prince Harry made the speech alone, with Meghan dropping out. The duchess still attended alongside her husband to show her support.
King Charles reunited with the Sussexes in July, and it is understood that since then, the family have not met again.
