King Charles III has clarified the royal standing of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. A recent letter from Buckingham Palace emphasized the couple’s status as non-working royals. This was confirmed by British broadcaster Helena Chard, who noted the decisiveness of the king’s stance, leaving no room for further discussion.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex expressed surprise at the timing of this letter, which was shared publicly without prior notice. According to People magazine, the letter, circulated on September 7, underlines their position as private citizens without active royal duties. This serves to clear any ambiguity regarding their role in the royal family.
“There is no ambiguity about who is in and who is out,” Chard stated. “The king is protecting the institution.”
This firm stance is backed by other royal contributors like Richard Fitzwilliams, who sees the letter as a message about the royal family’s formal position, especially after the Sussexes’ unanticipated UK return.
The letter issued by Richard Benyon, the Lord Chamberlain, directed by the king, states that while Harry and Meghan are recognized as private citizens, their His and Her Royal Highness titles are not to be used. The letter reiterates their freedom to pursue personal, charitable, and financial activities while keeping their privacy intact.
Amidst these developments, Prince Harry is gearing up for several charitable engagements, including supporting the Invictus Games. However, Uganda recently withdrew from the Games, citing the letter as guidance for their decision. This move, according to sources close to Harry, was an unintended result of the king’s letter.
Royal commentator Ian Pelham Turner criticized the letter’s public release, suggesting it could hinder any potential reconciliation between Harry and his family. While King Charles III remains supportive of the Invictus Games and non-working royals’ endeavors, the palace maintains its position on Harry and Meghan’s royal duties. Royal author Robert Jobson noted the absence of any planned “war of words” between the king and Prince Harry.
While the Sussexes plan to reside in the UK temporarily, they will not return to active royal duties. They will reside privately outside London while maintaining homes in California and Portugal.
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