Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have been criticised on Loose Women, with panellist Janet Street-Porter asking why the couple "can't just keep quiet". The discussion on Tuesday's episode focused on The King's letter about the Sussexes' official status following their return to the UK, and the couple's response.
Surprise return to the UK
The pair made an unexpected return to Britain at the end of August, ending a six-year stay in California after stepping down as senior royals in early 2020. Tensions between the couple and the Palace have continued since their departure, following their public criticism of the institution and open remarks about family tensions.
Queen Elizabeth II held a Sandringham "summit" in 2020, where it was reportedly agreed that the Sussexes could not hold a semi-royal role after stepping back from frontline duties, and were either in or out. They were allowed to retain certain charity patronages but could no longer represent the monarch or royal family. They also agreed not to take on commercial opportunities that would harm The Firm's standing, and while keeping their HRH styles, agreed not to use them.
Palace guidance reaffirms status
Following their return to the UK, where they will raise their two children for the foreseeable future, the Palace's most senior officer Richard Benyon issued guidance to senior officials in the Government and military on Monday, reaffirming the King's position on the Sussexes' status. The letter stated that the pair are "no longer working Members of The Royal Family" and that there is "no change to the current status of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex".
The letter added: "Their styles as His and Her Royal Highness remain in abeyance and are not used." It also noted that the "charitable work of the Duke and Duchess is a personal matter for them both and undertaken in their private capacity", concluding: "In short, their position is akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests".
Sussexes' response and panel reaction
A spokesperson for the Sussexes said the couple were "a little surprised not to have been told about this in advance". It is believed they were only able to see the letter about an hour before it was sent, and their surprise referred to how little time they had to respond, according to BBC News.
Loose Women was among the morning shows discussing the saga on Tuesday, with Street-Porter taking issue with the pushback from the Sussexes. In response to fellow panellist Coleen Nolan suggesting the pair are unfairly targeted and should be left alone, Street-Porter said: "But Col, they came back today with a PR statement from their press office saying 'we're surprised about...', why can't they just keep quiet? They didn't have to have a response this morning."
Nolan and Katie Piper voiced sympathy for what the pair have gone through, with Piper saying the situation is "so desperately sad".
