Meghan Markle’s decision on a potential return to the UK could provide a key factor in any reconciliation efforts with the royals – but there is a catch.

The Duchess of Sussex is rumoured to be coming back to Britain early next month to join her husband, Prince Harry, for an Invictus Games event in London.

The trip has not been confirmed yet but royal watchers have suggested it would be a good opportunity for the Sussex couple to bring over their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet with them, who have barely set foot in Harry’s home country, with their last trip taking place in 2022 for the late Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Now a PR expert has come out and claimed that if Meghan green lights a trip back with Archie and Lilibet, the move could serve as a “non-verbal olive branch” to the royals as well as the British public.

Renae Smith, founder and director of the Atticism told Express.co.uk: “The presence of their children could help to soften public criticism or media backlash (as people are usually kinder when children are involved) – and highlight the familial aspect of their lives, which is relatable to many.

“From a strategic standpoint, it could serve as a gesture towards reconciliation, offering a non-verbal olive branch to the royal family and the public – by sharing what is most precious to them.”

But Ms Smith added that if Harry and Meghan decide to bring their children back, they should balance the decision with considerations for the children’s well-being, “including the intense media scrutiny that accompanies royal events and the chance that the backlash (if any) will continue with or without the children”.

She explained: “If the decision is made to include their children, managing privacy and security becomes paramount, as does ensuring that the children’s involvement is appropriate and in their best interest.

“As with most situations – you have to weigh up the potential benefits and drawbacks, the message it sends to the public and the royal family, and how it aligns with their broader goals and values. Sadly for Meghan and Harry – they’ve tarnished their relationship with the media and the royals significantly – and this will be a consideration that needs to be taken into account for quite some time!”

It comes as the duchess has expressed her fears about coming back to Britain after details of their trip were leaked.

Earlier this month a source claimed Meghan was hoping to come back as a family but has been anxious ever since the leaks, which has left Harry with two options.

The source told New magazine: “It’s now got to the point where Meghan doesn’t want to come to the UK with the children. She just doesn’t feel safe.

“The situation is now about whether the family should attend with increased security or Harry should go to it alone.”

The source added Harry made a seven-word plea to his wife, saying: “I don’t want to do this alone.”