King Charles has issued formal guidance to senior stakeholders in government, the military, and royal representatives, making clear that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are not working members of the Royal Family despite their recent move back to the UK.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived in the UK last month by private jet, reportedly with hopes of negotiating a unique role that would allow them to pursue commercial deals in the US while avoiding money-making activities in the UK and possibly performing light royal duties.
This would have fulfilled Harry's long-held ambition for a half-in-half-out arrangement, which was previously rejected by the late Queen Elizabeth II. That rejection is said to have contributed to the couple's decision to step back from royal duties in 2020.
Official Guidance Issued
In a letter of guidance, King Charles directed that Harry and Meghan should not be treated as anything other than private individuals. Royal officials have confirmed the guidance is consistent with the so-called 'Sandringham Agreement', which still stands.
The letter states: "Following the decision by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to relocate to the UK, we have received a number of requests for guidance. To help avoid doubt or confusion, the King has directed that the following information be shared."
It continues: "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. This position will continue to be fully respected. It follows that there is no change to the current status of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. In short, their position is akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests."
Royal Titles Remain in Abeyance
The guidance also notes that Harry and Meghan's formal styles as 'His and Her Royal Highness' remain in abeyance and are not used.
While the letter could be seen as simple clarification, it represents a clear message that the couple cannot renegotiate the terms of their departure. The guidance is likely to be deeply embarrassing to the Duke and Duchess, particularly if they had hoped to leverage their royal connections for commercial media work in the UK.
The move has been described as a passive-aggressive masterstroke, leaving Harry and Meghan with no ambiguity about their standing within the Royal Family.
