The King has reiterated that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain private citizens despite their return to the UK, clarifying their status six years after they stepped down from royal duties.
Charles instructed the Lord Chamberlain to contact government departments and the military following requests for guidance after the return of the couple last month. The Sussexes stepped down as working royals in 2020 for personal and financial reasons but returned to the UK on August 26, with rumours rife as to the reason behind the unexpected development.
King's directive on Sussexes' status
The letter states: "Following the decision by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to relocate to the UK, we have received a number of requests for guidance.
"To help avoid doubt or confusion, The King has directed that the following information be shared.
"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.
"This position, distinct from the State and Royal duties undertaken by the working Royal Family, and with the personal latitude it brings the couple in respect of financial independence and protection of their privacy as they would wish, will continue to be fully respected."
Background of the royal departure
The couple's decision to step down was announced in January 2020, citing personal and financial reasons. Their relocation to the UK on August 26 has sparked widespread speculation, though no official reason has been given for the move.
The King's directive, communicated through the Lord Chamberlain, aims to provide clear guidance to government departments and the military, ensuring there is no confusion about the couple's role. The letter emphasizes that the Sussexes' position remains unchanged and that their privacy and financial independence will continue to be respected.
The clarification comes after a series of requests for guidance from various institutions, prompting the King to issue a formal statement. The move underscores the ongoing distinction between the working Royal Family and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have pursued independent ventures since their departure.
As the couple settles back into life in the UK, the King's message serves as a definitive statement on their status, putting an end to any ambiguity about their role within the monarchy.
