Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan have returned to the United Kingdom from California with Archie and Lilibet, but their roles within the monarchy remain unchanged. A letter sent on behalf of King Charles III reportedly states that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are still not working members of the Royal Family.
The use of the titles “His Royal Highness” and “Her Royal Highness” also remains suspended. As Euronews reports, the letter was published to avoid doubt and confusion about the couple's status. The clarification draws a clear line between Harry and Meghan and the working members of the Royal Family.
King Charles Confirms Harry and Meghan's Status
The letter states: “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.”
It further states that their role will remain separate from the state and royal duties carried out by working royals. The letter also refers to the couple's financial independence and their desire for privacy. It was delivered by the Lord Chamberlain, the highest-ranking official in the royal household.
Charity Work Is Carried Out in a Private Capacity
The letter also addresses Harry and Meghan's future public appearances in connection with their various projects. Their charitable work is described as “a personal matter for them both and undertaken in their private capacity.”
It reportedly states that their status is comparable to that of private individuals with commercial and charitable interests. According to NBC, the letter was made public following several inquiries about the couple's role. A palace official also reportedly confirmed that Harry's team received the letter on Monday.
A New Life in England With Archie and Lilibet
According to reports, the family has been living in a house in the Cotswolds since August. A new school has reportedly already been found for Archie and Lilibet. Previously, Harry and Meghan had lived in California since 2020 after stepping back from their roles as senior working royals following a serious conflict with the Royal Family.
During their years in the U.S., they gave a widely publicized interview to Oprah Winfrey, citing pressure from the British press and a lack of support as reasons for their decision to step away from royal life.
The Security Issue Remains Unresolved
It also remains unclear how the couple's security arrangements will be handled in the United Kingdom. The Royal and VIP Executive Committee is responsible for making decisions regarding government-funded security.
Last month, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham reportedly described the issue as a private matter and wished Harry and Meghan well following their move.
Harry has also reportedly suffered another legal setback. He and several other plaintiffs must collectively pay £34.5 million to Associated Newspapers after losing a High Court case over alleged privacy violations.
