Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, were “surprised” by a letter issued on behalf of King Charles III confirming that they remain non‑working members of the royal family. The couple, who recently moved back to the United Kingdom from California, said they were not given a chance to contribute to the letter’s contents.
Letter Details
Buckingham Palace released the letter on Monday, reiterating that the duke and duchess stepped down from royal duties in January 2020 and have since been classified as non‑working royals. The document, signed by the Lord Chamberlain, the senior officer of the royal household, states that their charitable work is “a personal matter” undertaken in a private capacity and that their status is “akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests.”
Security Implications
The palace source explained that the letter was intended to clarify the couple’s position for the British government and the armed forces, amid ongoing questions about whether public funds should cover their security. A government committee is scheduled to meet this week to discuss potential security provisions for the family.
The Home Office, which oversees protection for public figures, declined to comment directly, citing security concerns. A palace source added that the decision on security allocation rests with the committee.
Family Relocation
Harry and Meghan returned to the U.K. last month for an “extended” stay with their children, Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5. Their move has reignited media attention on the couple’s past allegations of racism and bullying within the royal institution, as well as their previous legal battle over the removal of police protection.
In February 2020, the Home Office decided that the Sussexes would no longer automatically receive personal police security while in Britain. Harry has argued that, given his military service in Afghanistan and the threats he faces, the government should continue to provide protection for his family.
Public Reaction
The release of the letter, which was placed in the public domain to avoid claims of secrecy, has drawn criticism from some observers who view the royal family’s handling of the situation as opaque. However, palace officials maintain that the clarification respects the couple’s desire for financial independence and privacy.
Max Burman and Henry Austin contributed to the original report.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
