Meghan and Harry’s Oprah interview demanded a response from the Queen, royal watchers say

“Never complain, never explain” is a motto that’s been used to describe the Queen’s public comments, but complaints aired by Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, on US television have elicited a rare comment — if not an explanation — from the monarch.

The Queen has long been reluctant to comment on personal matters, but royal watchers say the interview demanded a response.

Earlier this week, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex told TV host Oprah Winfrey a senior member of the royal family was concerned about the skin colour of the couple’s son Archie and that Meghan was blocked from accessing mental health treatment.

When the Queen’s response came 40 hours after the interview first aired, it reached for a conciliatory tone, taking…