King Charles clarifies status of Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, after their return to the UK

King Charles III has once again affirmed that Prince Harry and his wife Meghan remain non-working members of the royal family, despite their recent return to the United Kingdom. A letter addressed to senior government officials, government and military officials, and lord lieutenants confirms that the couple will continue to refrain from using their royal titles and will conduct any charity work in a private capacity.

The letter emphasizes that operational security decisions will be handled by the relevant police agencies. The Lord Chamberlain, the most senior official in the royal household, sent the letter to ensure clarity and prevent any confusion that might arise from the couple's status. While the letter simply reiterates the existing situation, it highlights concerns among palace observers that Harry and Meghan’s status could potentially create a parallel royal court, competing with the working members of the royal family.

This issue is particularly sensitive due to Harry's ongoing struggle with the government regarding the restoration of publicly funded police protection, which was terminated when the couple relinquished their royal roles. The decision to grant or deny the couple's round-the-clock police protection falls under the jurisdiction of a government panel called RAVEC, or the Royal and VIP Executive Committee.