King clarifies Harry and Meghan remain non-working royals

A letter sent on behalf of King Charles has drawn a firm line around Prince Harry and Meghan’s status after their return to the United Kingdom. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex may appear publicly and support their charities, but they will not resume official duties.

The letter says they remain “private citizens” and cannot use the titles His and Her Royal Highness. It was sent by the Lord Chamberlain, a senior Palace official, to Harry’s team, government departments, military officials and Lord Lieutenants, according to Palace sources.

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private citizens

That distribution matters because Lord Lieutenants and government staff often help organize royal visits and engagements. The letter makes clear that any appearances by Harry and Meghan will take place in a private capacity and will not represent the Royal Family. It comes ahead of public appearances expected this autumn as the couple settles in Britain and supports its charitable work.

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The charitable work of the Duke and Duchess is a personal matter for them both and undertaken in their private capacity.

The King’s message restates the position agreed in 2020, when the Sussexes left the United Kingdom. The so-called Sandringham Agreement ruled out a “half-in and half-out” arrangement, preventing them from pursuing commercial interests while remaining working royals. “The charitable work of the Duke and Duchess is a personal matter for them both and undertaken in their private capacity,” the letter says.

The Palace also directed organizations seeking guidance on receptions, particularly where public funds could be involved, to Buckingham Palace. Operational security questions should go to the relevant police authorities. Harry has complained about the level of police protection available in Britain, while the Palace says security decisions belong to the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, known as Ravec. Palace sources said making the letter public promoted transparency and reduced the risk of leaks. Harry and Meghan’s representatives were contacted for a response.

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Any operational security issues should continue to be directed to the relevant police authorities.