File photo: King Charles and Prince Harry with wife Meghan Markle
The letter said operational security decisions remained matters for the relevant police agencies. Since leaving for the United States, Harry has accused the royal family of neglect, the tabloid press of ruining his life and the government of failing to provide automatic police protection that would allow him to return to Britain. The government panel, known as RAVEC, or the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, is responsible for the decision on whether round-the-clock police protection should be restored.
A committee responsible for deciding the level of security provided to him at public expense is due to meet this week to determine what protection he and his family should receive following their return.
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan were surprised by a letter sent on behalf of King Charles III clarifying that they remain non-working members of the British royal family and private citizens, their spokesperson said. Their return had also come as a surprise to close family members, with Harry’s father, the king, being informed only days before the news became public, according to Reuters. The couple and their two children returned to live in Britain last month, six years after stepping down from royal duties and moving to the United States during a period of strained relations with the royal family.
The letter, authorised by Charles and sent to senior British officials on Monday, made clear that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were no longer working members of the royal family.