Meghan Markle’s father has said that his daughter has more of an influence on Prince Harry than he does over her.

Speaking on Good Morning Britain, Thomas Markle, father of the Duchess of Sussex, joined live from San Diego, USA, and made a plea on camera for access to his grandchildren Prince Archie, four, and Princess Lilibet, two, who Meghan shares with Prince Harry.

And Thomas, who suffered a life-changing stroke in May last year has now regained the ability to speak, also gave his thoughts on the power balance between the pair.

Speaking to hosts Susanna Reid and Richard Madeley on the show today (Monday, September 18) he said: “She [Meghan] has more of an influence on Harry than he does on her.”

During the chat, he claimed he hadn’t seen either Meghan or Prince Harry in five years, as the last time they spoke he was in hospital before their lavish royal wedding.

Richard commented: “If that was me and I was on death’s door for quite a few weeks and months and my daughter turned her back on me, I’d be heartbroken.”

Asking how he feels about the whole situation as so much time has passed since then, Thomas agreed that he was hurt.

He said: “I still haven't seen my grandkids and I want to see my grandkids and I think the King would like to see his grandkids as well.”

Adding: “I’m very upset about it as well because this is a cruel thing to do to a grandparent, not just me, but to the King of England as well, denying the right to see a grandchild, grandchildren.”

When asked by Susanna what he would say to his daughter Meghan if he was given the opportunity, he said: “Put the past behind us and allow me to see my grandkids.

“In California, I can actually sue to see them but I don't want to do that.

“I’ve done nothing wrong, there's nothing that points to me to say that I’m a bad guy.

“Matter of fact, I’m a really loving father and she knows that.

“And there is no excuse for her to treat me this way. No excuse to treat grandparents this way as well.”

Thomas concluded: “I’ve always been here for her [Meghan], I still love her, I’ll love her forever. I want her to reach out to me and let me see my grandkids and let me have a little peace, it’s been five years.

“She’s always been sweet and very talented. She always was [loving], I don't know about now.

“I really believe she and Harry should take the kids and go back to England and give the kids their rightful place among the Royals and give the kids some exposure.”

To watch the interview and show in full visit ITV.com