Prince Harry and Meghan Markle say they were “surprised” by a formal letter from King Charles confirming they remain non-working royals after their move back to the UK. The letter, sent to government and military officials, makes clear the couple will continue as private citizens with no official royal duties.
What the King’s Letter Says About Harry and Meghan
A letter sent on behalf of King Charles by the Lord Chamberlain confirms that Prince Harry and Meghan’s status has not changed despite their return to Britain from California.
Key points from the letter include:
- Harry and Meghan are not working members of the Royal Family
- Their styles as His and Her Royal Highness (HRH) remain in abeyance and are not used
- Their charitable work is a personal matter undertaken in a private capacity
- Their position is described as “akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests”
- Any operational security issues should be directed to relevant police authorities
The letter was shared with Prince Harry’s team, government departments, military officials, and Lord Lieutenants who often support royal visits.
Why Harry and Meghan Say They Were ‘Surprised’
A spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said the couple were “a little surprised not to have been told about this in advance.”
However, royal sources say Harry and Meghan did see the letter before it went public, but only about an hour before it was shared with the media. By the time their team made contact, the letter was almost published, leaving little time to respond.
Security Review Underway as Sussexes Settle in the UK
Alongside the status letter, a security committee known as Ravec (Royal and VIP Executive Committee) is meeting this week to review the level of taxpayer-funded protection for Harry and Meghan now that they are UK residents again.
The committee includes Home Office representatives and decides security for royals and public figures. Prince Harry has previously raised concerns about police protection in the UK.
The Home Office does not comment on specific cases. A spokesperson said: “The UK government’s protective security system is rigorous and proportionate. It is our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on those arrangements.”
What This Means for Harry and Meghan’s Life in Britain
The letter reaffirms the 2020 Sandringham Agreement, which ruled out any “half-in and half-out” status. Harry and Meghan cannot act as working royals while also pursuing their own commercial projects.
Expected next steps and activities:
- Prince Harry is likely to support his charities, including the Invictus Games, due to be held in Birmingham next year
- Meghan is reported to be considering a return to acting
- Any public appearances they make this autumn will be in a private capacity, not as representatives of the Royal Family
The King’s message serves as a clear signal to officials and event organisers that Sussex engagements should not be treated as official royal duties.
Key Takeaways from the Royal Letter
- King Charles confirmed Harry and Meghan remain non-working royals after their UK move.
- They cannot use HRH titles and are treated as private citizens.
- Their charity work is personal and not on behalf of the Sovereign.
- A security committee is reviewing their protection arrangements in the UK.
- The letter was sent to government, military, and royal representatives to avoid confusion.
