Prince Harry's fear that the Palace could be "pulling strings" over major decisions has reportedly resurfaced after King Charles's latest move, according to reports. The concern was reignited by a letter released by Buckingham Palace this week, confirming that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are not working royals now they are back in the UK.
The letter, sent on behalf of King Charles III to senior government and military officials, also clarified that Harry and Meghan do not use their HRH titles, and that any charity work they undertake is in a private capacity. It further stated that security matters relating to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were a decision for other relevant authorities.
Letter's content and reaction
The Lord Chamberlain, the most senior official in the royal household, said in the letter: "To help avoid doubt or confusion, The King has directed that (this) information be shared." The letter reportedly took Harry and Meghan by surprise, with a copy sent to the couple just over an hour before it was made public.
According to The Telegraph, the move has reignited Harry's fears that Palace officials are "pulling the strings" when it comes to decisions made about him. This concern is said to have been heightened by the letter's release just before a meeting that could determine whether the Sussexes receive police protection now they are back living in the UK.
Distrust of courtiers
The Telegraph's royal editor Victoria Ward wrote: "It is no secret that the Duke does not trust the courtiers who work for the royal household. He does not like Sir Clive Alderton, the King's private secretary, who sits on Ravec, and who, he is convinced, has been a key player in the decision to deny him security."
A representative for Harry and Meghan said the couple were "surprised" at how little notice they were given about the letter sent on behalf of the King to "key stakeholders". The spokesperson said: "We were a little surprised not to have been told about this in advance."
Current situation
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been living in the UK again for exactly two weeks today. It is believed they are currently helping their children Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, settle into their new British school. The family are reportedly living in a privately-rented home outside of London.
