The Morning Poll: Do you feel sorry for Meghan now the accusations against Thomas have come to light?
The article reports that the Duchess of Sussex expressed “deep distress” over allegations of child sex crimes against her father, Thomas Markle. Meghan said her thoughts were with any children who may have been harmed and explained that cutting ties with her father, and preventing contact with her children, was a choice made to protect them.
The piece invites readers to vote on whether they feel sympathy for Meghan in light of the allegations. It gives no further details about the accusations or their investigation, and says poll results will appear in the following day’s Morning Mail newsletter.
In short
- Meghan says allegations against her father caused deep distress.
- She says estrangement was intended to protect her children.
- A poll asks readers whether they feel sympathy for her.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Meghan’s reported distress and concern for any children who may have been harmed are understandable, especially given the seriousness of the allegations. If she cut contact to protect her children, that boundary may have been a painful but responsible choice, and the allegations could prompt sympathy for what she and others affected are facing.
The case against
Some readers may feel the allegations, which the article does not detail, do not by themselves change how they view the estrangement or establish what happened. They may also think sympathy should focus primarily on any children who may have been harmed, while reserving judgement about Meghan’s choices until more is known.
Explained simply
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, is the wife of Prince Harry and has been estranged from her father, Thomas Markle, for several years. The distance between them has also meant he has not had contact with Meghan and Harry’s children.
The report concerns allegations of child sex crimes against Thomas Markle; it gives no details about the claims or any investigation. It also raises questions about family estrangement, children’s safety and how readers respond to allegations, while the poll asks for views on Meghan’s situation.