Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been warned that Prince William’s next move could be catastrophic for the couple. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex returned to the UK at the end of August following six years living in California, but King Charles III made it clear through an official letter that they will remain non-working royals.
It’s believed that William was instrumental in getting the letter out, with royal sources revealing that “he’s taking it as a big win, and it’s given him hope that his father might finally be seeing this more clearly.” The letter, which was issued by the Lord Chamberlain on behalf of the King, outlined Harry and Meghan’s position to “avoid doubt or confusion”. It directed that the couple will not undertake official duties on behalf of the sovereign, noting that their position is “akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests”.
The royal source also revealed that William is now planning to have Harry and Meghan’s titles removed, The News International reports. They are formally known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The insider said: “William is not going to stop pushing until the King agrees to take away their titles. He hates that he has to constantly raise the issue with his father; it’s caused a lot of strife between them, but if it means protecting the monarchy and protecting his father from making a colossal mistake, it’s worth it to William.”
Harry and Meghan returned to the UK last month, and the move has triggered significant controversy. They relocated with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, to live as private residents at a non-royal residence.
William is now reportedly planning to get Harry and Meghan’s titles taken away. (Image: Getty)
William was always sceptical about their return and has remained quiet since they came back to the UK. It’s believed the brothers have not spoken since 2022, despite Harry and Meghan now living a short drive away from Windsor.
Harry and Meghan’s return has reignited debates over who will fund and provide protection for the family. The King’s letter reinforced that their personal security is a matter for the relevant police authorities and the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec).
The letter said they would not be able to use the titles “His and Her Royal Highness” and remain “private citizens”. It added that the “charitable work of the Duke and Duchess is a personal matter for them both and undertaken in their private capacity”.