The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not be working royals allowed to carry out official engagements now they have returned to the UK, a letter sent on behalf of King Charles said. The message sets out the status of Prince Harry and Meghan, who returned to Britain from California last month with their children, Archie and Lilibet. It was sent by the Lord Chamberlain, the senior Palace official, and addresses how any Sussex appearances should be treated in official and administrative terms, Palace sources said. Titles And Role After The ReturnUnder the arrangements described in the letter, Prince Harry and Meghan will continue not to use the titles “His and Her Royal Highness”. The letter says they remain “private citizens”. It also reiterates that the position agreed in 2020, when the Sussexes left the UK, remains in force. That agreement, known as the Sandringham Agreement, ruled out any “half-in and half-out” arrangement, including the ability to pursue their own commercial interests while continuing as working members of the Royal Family. The letter states that it is “well known” that in January 2020 the Duke and Duchess stepped down from undertaking representative duties on behalf of the sovereign, and are no longer working members of the Royal Family. Engagements, Public Funds And Buckingham PalaceThe letter makes clear that any engagements carried out by the Sussexes will be in a private capacity and will not represent the Royal Family. It adds that the couple’s charitable work is a personal matter for them and should be undertaken privately rather than as part of their previous official roles. The message also directs organisations with questions about arrangements for the reception of Prince Harry and Meghan, particularly where recourse to public funds might be required, to Buckingham Palace. The letter was sent to Prince Harry’s team, government departments, military officials and Lord Lieutenants, according to Palace sources. Lord Lieutenants are the monarch’s local representatives and are often involved in visits and engagements involving senior members of the Royal Family. Prince Harry appeared to have been photographed for the first time since his return to the UK, with an image circulated on social media showing him at a London TV and podcast studio. Security And Unresolved IssuesThe correspondence also addressed operational security in the UK, saying that any security issues should continue to be directed to the relevant police authorities. Prince Harry has said he has not been given adequate police protection in the UK. The Palace says that security matters of that type have to be handled by the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, known as Ravec, which sets security arrangements for royals and public figures. Palace sources said the decision to make the Lord Chamberlain’s letter public reflected a preference for transparency rather than letting it emerge through leaks. The Sussexes are expected to make further public appearances later this autumn as they settle in Britain and support their charities. It is also expected that Prince Harry will support organisations including the Invictus Games, due to be held in Birmingham next year. There have also been reports that Meghan is considering returning to acting. The letter does not address those plans. Join the discussion? 8 September 2026
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