Harry and Meghan ‘Surprised’ by Letter Clarifying Their Status Outside the Royal Family

Prince Harry and Meghan have expressed surprise at a letter stating that they are private citizens rather than active members of the British monarchy. A spokesperson said the couple were “a little surprised not to have been informed of this in advance.”

Royal sources, however, maintain that the couple were told the letter would be sent. The document, signed by a representative of King Charles III under his direction, went to the Sussexes' team, government departments, military authorities and the media.

The letter says Harry and Meghan cannot use the style of His Royal Highness. “There will be no changes to the current status of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Their treatment as His Royal Highness remains suspended and will not be used,” the king wrote in response to requests for clarification.

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a little surprised not to have been informed of this in advance.

It also says the couple's decision to seek financial independence and privacy will continue to be fully respected. They remain private citizens with commercial and charitable interests while living in the United Kingdom, and the Sandringham Agreement remains in force. Under that agreement, they gave up their roles as active members of the royal family in January 2020.

Harry and Meghan returned to Britain on August 26 with their two children, Archie and Lilibet, after six years in California. They recently established their residence in the United Kingdom. According to press reports, the children have been enrolled in a British school and the couple are seeking a move to the Cotswolds in southwest England.

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There will be no changes to the current status of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Their treatment as His Royal Highness remains suspended and will not be used.