Harry and Meghan 'Surprised' By King Charles's Letter — but Palace Sources Tell a Different Story
The Sussexes were apparently informed about the official letter only an hour in advance.
Ever since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle returned to the Duke’s homeland with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, there has been considerable speculation and doubt about their royal roles and future endeavors. Although they made it clear that they will be returning as non-royal, private citizens, many people were wondering whether their proximity to the royal family would end up making a difference, allowing them to make appearances at major royal events like future royal weddings, Trooping the Color, and even the Christmas walkabout at Sandringham.
However, an official letter recently released by the Lord Chamberlain, a top officer of the Royal Household, has clarified the situation. The letter, which was apparently released on the guidance of King Charles himself, made it clear that, “It is well known that in January 2020 the Duke and Duchess stepped down from undertaking representative duties on behalf of The Sovereign, and are no longer working Members of The Royal Family. This position, distinct from the State and Royal duties undertaken by the working Royal Family, and with the personal latitude it brings the couple in respect of financial independence and protection of their privacy as they would wish, will continue to be fully respected."
Upon the release of this letter, an official spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said they were sincerely surprised to read the Palace's letter, reminding everyone that Harry and Markle remain non-working royals. The spokesperson told the BBC that Harry and Markle “were a little surprised not to have been told about this in advance.” However, sources close to the royal family deny this allegation. They believe that the Duke and Duchess were apparently made aware of the letter in advance.
They further believe that this was a timing-related misunderstanding, as Harry and Markle apparently weren’t given enough time to respond. They were apparently made aware of the letter only about an hour before it was officially released to various media sources.
This was because, by the time they got in touch with the Sussexes’ team, the letter had unfortunately almost been sent out. Beyond this, a security committee meeting is scheduled soon and will include Home Office representatives. Its goal would be to decide the level of taxpayer-funded security to be provided to the Sussexes, if at all.
