Prince William’s Family Firm Joke ‘Torment’

The 42-year-old heir of the throne made the Jokey commentary while visiting the Army Air Corps on 4 June, during his first official involvement in his new role as Colonel-in-Chef.

The appointment, which was previously expected by Harry, was seen as an important shift in royal responsibilities after the exit of the younger prince from royal tasks in 2020.

William wore camouflage -fatigue and helping to serve breakfast to troops, William asked soldiers how often they saw their families before they had to come: “Some of them may not want to see you that much.”

The comment, supplied with a bitter smile, pulled laughter from the squaddies – but also renewed the focus on the deep and continuous gap between William and Harry, 40, who say that it has reached a point of “not turning back”.

According to several royal insiders, the brothers have not spoken for more than two years and there is no current road to reconciliation.

One source said it is unlikely that the brothers will see each other again outside of a big event such as the funeral of their father, King Charles.