At least ten former Kensington Palace staff members are reportedly 'queuing up' to assist an independent inquiry into bullying allegations against Meghan Markle, according to sources. The Duchess of Sussex, 39, has not yet been formally interviewed over claims she presided over a 'toxic' work environment while a working royal.
The review, launched in March and conducted by an independent law firm, was expected to report findings in the annual Sovereign Grant report on Wednesday. However, the probe is 'ongoing' and may be delayed until next year. A source close to the inquiry described it as heading for a 'brutal showdown' between Meghan, who disputes all allegations, and Buckingham Palace, which is taking each claim seriously.
Meghan is said to be preparing a point-by-point rebuttal of the allegations, demanding the Palace hand over a detailed breakdown of the claims. Insiders claim she is adamant that the staff were not up to their jobs and could not handle the pressure of working for her. The allegations stem from a complaint made in October 2018, with a leaked email alleging Meghan drove two personal assistants out and undermined a third.
Buckingham Palace has stated it 'does not and will not tolerate bullying or harassment' and is inviting former staff to participate in the review. A spokesperson for Meghan previously described the allegations as a 'calculated smear campaign' ahead of her interview with Oprah Winfrey. The Palace declined to comment while the review is ongoing.
