Statement on Harry and Meghan from King Charles: They will remain as 'private citizens' in the UK

Following the return of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to the UK, the debate regarding their position within the royal family has been addressed with a statement issued on behalf of King Charles III. In the letter shared by the Lord Chamberlain, it was announced that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will remain in the status of "private citizens" and will not be recognized as official working members of the royal family.

The letter recalled that Harry and Meghan withdrew from representative duties on behalf of the monarch in 2020 and stated that the couple would not be able to use their HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) titles. The statement noted that this announcement was made "to avoid any doubt or confusion" regarding their status.

“This status, which differs from that of royal family members who perform state and royal duties, will continue to be fully respected, along with the personal freedom it provides the couple to maintain their financial independence and privacy as they see fit.”

It is reported that Harry, Meghan, and their children, Archie and Lilibet, returned to the UK last month from California, where they had moved following sharp disagreements within the royal family in 2020. It is stated that the family is living in a house in the Cotswolds region, located in the southwest and south-central part of the country, and that a new school has been found for the children.

The statement also noted that the couple is expected to appear in public primarily through the charitable organizations they support. The letter emphasized that Harry and Meghan's philanthropic activities are of a personal nature, noting that their position is similar to that of private citizens who engage in commercial and charitable activities.

The couple's return to the UK coincides with a period of ongoing uncertainty regarding security arrangements and whether they will be eligible for state protection. In the UK, the Royal and VIP Executive Committee decides on the state protection to be provided to public figures and members of the royal family.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham, in a statement regarding the security debate last month, described the matter as a "private issue" for Harry and Meghan and said that the government offered the couple its "best wishes" upon their return to the UK. Harry and Meghan made global headlines during their time in the US with their interview with Oprah Winfrey, in which they made statements about their relationship with the royal family and the pressure from the British press.

News Source: 12punto