What did King Charles III say about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in his King’s Speech?

King Charles III addressed the nation for the first time since the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The new monarch paid tribute to the Queen in his pre-recorded speech.

He hailed his “beloved Mother” and described her as “an inspiration and example to me and to all my family”. King Charles III added: “We owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother”.

The King’s Speech was broadcast across the BBC and major news channels at 6pm. He also spoke about his two sons Prince William and Prince Harry during the address. Here’s all you need to know:

What did the King say about Harry and Meghan?

Prince Harry and Meghan announced they were stepping back from their roles as working royals in January 2020. The couple have since moved to the United States.

However, despite that - the new King still included them in his first address to the nation. King Charles III said: “I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas.”

He did not refer to his son as Prince or the Duke of Sussex in his speech.

What did the King say about Prince William?

King Charles III said: “As my Heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me.

“He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades.

“Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty.

“With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given.”

How did King Charles pay tribute to the Queen?

The vast majority of the King’s Speech was in tribute to Elizabeth II.

King Charles III described his mother as an “inspiration” and praised her efforts throughout her 70 year reign.

In the closing segment of his address, the King said: ““In a little over a week’s time we will come together as a nation, as a Commonwealth and indeed a global community, to lay my beloved mother to rest.

“In our sorrow, let us remember and draw strength from the light of her example.

“On behalf of all my family, I can only offer the most sincere and heartfelt thanks for your condolences and support.

“They mean more to me than I can ever possibly express.

“And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: thank you.

“Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years.

“May ‘flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest’.”

Can you watch the King’s Speech?

You can watch the new monarch’s first address to the UK in the video at the top of this article.

The King’s Speech will also be available on iPlayer and the BBC website.