Royal family disputes Sussexes' public role after Nottingham charity visit
King Charles' office described Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as private citizens, while the couple continues to present themselves as members of the royal family, prompting a dispute over their public engagements.
A recent charity visit to Nottingham by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has highlighted a disagreement between the Sussexes and the royal household over the couple's public status. A source close to the couple told the London Sunday Times that the phrase “working members of the royal family” is inaccurate, saying the pair are “members of the royal family, and they work,” but are not working for the institution. The source added that their activities are organized around family life and business commitments.
King Charles, through a letter issued by his Lord Chamberlain and Lord Benyon, clarified to government departments and local officials that the Sussexes’ role is “akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests.” The palace’s communication was intended to delineate the couple’s activities from official royal duties.
The Sussexes responded via a statement in the Telegraph, asserting that they are “public figures” and that they were not consulted on the letter’s contents, describing the wording as damaging. Their position rejects the palace’s characterization and emphasizes their continued identification as members of the royal family.
Observers noted that the Nottingham events were poorly attended and described as chaotic, with limited public participation at the first venue and crowd control issues at subsequent locations. Critics argue that the Sussexes’ insistence on public engagements and security arrangements creates confusion about their official status.
The dispute comes as the royal family prepares for a solemn visit to Aberfan, Wales, by King Charles, Queen Camilla and Prince William, contrasting the official royal itinerary with the Sussexes’ independent activities.