King Charles III has officially reaffirmed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are considered private citizens while in Britain and do not represent the Royal Family. The declaration, issued via a letter from the Lord Chamberlain, Lord Benyon, serves to prevent any confusion about their status, particularly as they undertake private engagements.
This marks the first official affirmation of their continued status as non-working royals since their departure from royal duties over six years ago. The timing of the announcement, on the eve of the fourth anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's death, is seen as significant. The late Queen had held the view that the couple could not be 'half-in, half-out' royals, a stance that King Charles, strongly supported by Prince William, appears to maintain.
The letter emphasizes that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are to be treated as private citizens, and their HRH titles remain 'in abeyance.' It explicitly states that any charitable work they undertake is a personal matter and carried out in their private capacity. The communication is intended to clarify for government officials, military personnel, and Lord Lieutenants that any engagements by the Sussexes will not be considered royal duties.
This directive reinforces the outcome of the 2020 Sandringham Summit, which formalized their exit from royal life. Royal aides have reportedly expressed exasperation over reports, allegedly fed to friendly publications by the couple's friends, suggesting Harry and Meghan intend to increase their public-facing charity work during their UK stay. Concerns have also arisen about the potential for the couple to establish what is described as a 'rival court.'
The Lord Chamberlain's letter, described as a response to requests for guidance, aims to prevent the Sussexes' activities from being perceived as royal engagements, a practice that has occurred in previous years. While the letter clarifies their status in the UK, it leaves certain questions unanswered, such as arrangements for family events and Harry's desire for continued taxpayer-funded security for his children. Issues concerning security are to be directed to relevant police authorities, while any matters requiring public funds should be addressed to Buckingham Palace, suggesting potential royal intervention if the couple's conduct is deemed not in the monarchy's best interests.