King expresses 'love for Harry and Meghan' in first speech after Queen's death

Credit: PA

King Charles III said he wished to express his "love" for his son Harry and his daughter-in-law Meghan Markle and wished them well in his inaugural speech to the nation.

Delivering his first speech since his mother the Queen's death, His Majesty highlighted that his life will "of course change" as he takes on "new responsibilities" and leaves his work in the "trusted hands of others".

The King confirmed the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge would be made the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The King's eldest son and heir to the throne William will be his successor in the role, while his daughter-in-law Kate will take on her the role held by her husband's late mother, Princess Diana.

The King wished his youngest son and daughter-in-law well as he gave William and Kate new titles. Credit: PA

Moments later he added: “I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas."

The King's relationship with youngest son Harry has reportedly been fraught since he and wife Meghan decided to step down as working royals and move abroad.

Things were reportedly particularly difficult following Harry and Meghan's explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey.

Many saw the words of affection during the King's speech as an acknowledgement that they have put their differences to one side.

Announcing the changes moving forward under his reign, he continued: “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."

During the address, he also paid a touching tribute to his "darling mama" and simply told her "thank you" for everything she had done for her family and the nation.

He emotionally noted that his mother and father would finally reunite.

He added: “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’.”

The King said: "Throughout her life, Her Majesty The Queen – my beloved Mother – was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family, and we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother."