The freedom from the Royal Family yearned for by Harry and Meghan could have happened had the monarchy been slimmed down, say experts.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are feared to have forever burned their bridges with the family following the full release of their bombshell Netflix documentary.
Among the accusations thrown in the six-episode series was of a falling out between Harry and his brother William as they were discussing Megxit.
However, one of the options favoured by the King is for a slimmed down monarchy in line with others in Europe, with fewer members of front line royals.
If it had come to pass Harry and his wife could have “escaped the gilded cage” without the falling out, says Professor Robert Hazell of University College London.
Writing with colleague Dr Bob Morris, he said: “They also lack free choice of career; freedom to marry whom they like; freedom of speech; freedom of religion; and freedom to travel.
"In all European monarchies the heir and others close in the line of succession cannot choose a profession or pursue a business career.
“The harsh reality is that younger sons are spares who are ultimately dispensable from a hereditary monarchy: it is only those in direct line of succession who count.”
Prince Harry ’s explosive book, due out in the new year, is named Spare after his apparent feeling towards the family.
Over the weekend it was reported Harry was told he can forget about a royal apology until he "admits his fault".
Harry and wife Meghan Markle reportedly want the Firm to say sorry to them before they consider attending the King’s coronation next year.
New reports this weekend claim the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are demanding a ‘sit-down meeting’ with senior members of the Royal Family in the wake of the release of their explosive Netflix documentary.
The Sussexes are said to want them to ‘take responsibility’ for the pain and damage they put the couple through, The Times reports.
But an apology won't be forthcoming and Buckingham Palace will remain silent until Harry and Meghan also admit they have made mistakes, it is now claimed.
Katie Nichols, Vanity Fair's Royal Editor, says there is no chance the Royal Family will be making the first move.
The author of the New Royals told OK! Magazine: “What needs to happen is an admission that there have been faults on both sides and once there has been that admission, that may pave the way for a reconciliation.
"But Charles knows that a monarchy divided is not a monarchy the world wants to see.”
