Princes Harry and William's advisor only took on job on the condition of zero pay

A top royal adviser once laid down two unexpected conditions before agreeing to work with Prince William and Prince Harry, and the late Queen said yes without hesitation.

Sir David Manning, former British ambassador to the US, was personally chosen by Queen Elizabeth II to help guide her grandsons as they prepared to take on more international royal duties. 

But before stepping into the high-profile role, he made an unusual request.

According to royal expert Valentine Low’s book Courtiers, Sir David told the Queen he’d only accept the position if he could work part-time, and do it for free.

As Low writes, Manning wanted to avoid becoming “embroiled in the formal palace machinery.” 

The Queen, confident in his abilities, agreed to the terms without question, and the gamble paid off.

Described as a “real confidant” to both princes, Sir David became a trusted figure behind the scenes. 

Former private secretary Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton told Low, “He had enormously good judgement… they trusted him. They knew he’d fight their corner.”

Under Manning’s discreet guidance, William and Harry launched the Royal Foundation, a “leaner, nimbler” charity model praised for its fresh approach.

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