Prince Harry's apparent wish to change his surname to Spencer should make King Charles do one thing, an expert has claimed. While reports say the 40-year-old was counselled against the decision by his uncle, Charles, Earl Spencer, commentators have claimed that it "sends a message" to the royals over his wishes to reconcile.

Speaking to The Sun's Royal Exclusive Show, royal expert Charles Rae said: "I think as well that this is another Harry not knowing what he wants to do. It was only less than a month ago that he was pleading for a reconciliation with his father and his brother.

"And the next thing we hear, and I think the story was well sourced, he wants to change the name from Mountbatten-Windsor to Spencer."

Discussing how this could be viewed by the royals, he added: "Well, that is sending a terrible message to the Royal Family that he doesn't really want a reconciliation."

He then added that the King should listen to Harry's latest move, adding: "He wants to be completely severed from the Royal Family.

"And I think the King should grant his wish. I think he should sever him from the Royal Family."

After reportedly reaching out to his uncle during a visit to the UK, Harry was later told that the legal side of changing his surname would be too difficult.

Prince Harry has been at loggerheads with the royals for some time, with the former working royal said to no longer be on speaking terms with his father.

Harry has made several visits back to the UK - but has often spoke about his fears with bringing his wife and children to his home country.

The Duke of Sussex now resides in California with Meghan Markle and their children, Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four.