King Charles gives major honor to Prince William amid Harry, Meghan Markle UK presence

King Charles has honoured his elder son Prince William amid Harry and Meghan Markle’s presence in Britain.

According to the Palace, Prince William will represent King Charles at the funeral of King Harald V of Norway on Wednesday.

Sharing the palace announcement, royal expert Rebecca English tweeted, “The Prince of Wales will represent His Majesty at the funeral of King Harald V of Norway on Wednesday. It is usual precedent for the sovereign not to attend funerals of other Heads of State.

“The Princess Royal will additionally attend in a private and personal capacity as godmother to King Haakon VIII.”

The heir to the throne is set to represent his father at the funeral on September 9, having also attended the funeral of Pope Francis last year on behalf of the king.

British monarchs do not attend funerals of other heads of state per protocol, usually sending another member of the royal family to represent them.

Charles, 77, who is being treated for an undisclosed form of cancer but maintains a packed schedule of engagements, released a statement mourning the loss of his "dear cousin" King Harald last week.

The two men were second cousins once removed, both being descendants of Britain's King Edward VII.