King Charles classifies Harry and Meghan as ‘private citizens’

King Charles III has made clear that Prince Harry and Meghan are not returning to the role of working royals after moving back to Britain from the United States.

A letter issued by the Lord Chamberlain, the Royal Household’s most senior official, said the couple’s position was “akin to private citizens.” It also said they should not be addressed as His and Her Royal Highness. The letter followed what it called “a number of requests for guidance” after their relocation, and was issued to avoid doubt or confusion.

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Akin to private citizens

“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,” the letter said. “This position, distinct from the state and royal duties undertaken by the working royal family, and with the personal latitude it brings the couple in respect of financial independence and protection of their privacy as they would wish, will continue to be fully respected.”

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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.

Harry and Meghan left Britain and quit royal duties in 2020 amid a dispute with the royal family. They returned to live in the United Kingdom last month with their two children, Archie and Lilibet. They are reportedly living in the Cotswolds in central England and are said to have enrolled the children at private schools for the coming academic year.

The couple, formally the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, lost their Royal Highness styles, police protection and public funding after stepping down. The letter said their styles “are not used” and that their charitable work is a private matter carried out in their personal capacity.

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Their styles as His and Her Royal Highness are not used.