Harry and Meghan ‘surprised’ by King’s letter reiterating they’re not working royals

Prince Harry and Meghan are reportedly taken aback by King Charles’ recent letter confirming they are to be treated as "private citizens" following their return to the United Kingdom two weeks ago, according to a spokesperson for the couple. In the letter, issued on behalf of the King on Monday, Lord Chamberlain emphasized that Harry and Meghan had ceased being "working Members of The Royal Family" in January 2020 when they stepped down from their representative duties.

This status will remain unchanged, the Palace official stated, and affirmed in a letter sent to government departments, military, Lord-Lieutenants, and the Duke’s team. The King's letter also clarified that any operational matters involving the Sussexes should be addressed to the relevant police authorities. Harry has been pushing for the reinstatement of his family's taxpayer-funded security, which was reduced when they relocated to North America in 2020.

It is expected that the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) will meet this week to discuss the Sussexes' arrangements, potentially as early as Tuesday. Despite their strained relations with the royal family since their departure, Harry and Meghan, along with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, recently returned to the UK, enrolling their children in local schools.

The letter further stated that all charitable work conducted by the couple is a personal matter for them, undertaken independently from the Royal Household.