A fresh dispute has reportedly broken out behind the scenes regarding how the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are described in public. According to reports, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are deeply upset over a traditional phrase used to separate active palace figures from those who no longer carry out official duties. Insiders have claimed the couple strongly dislikes the expression "working members of the Royal Family" and finds the wording unfair.
Even though the pair stepped back from their senior roles in 2020, it is reported that they still view themselves as part of the wider family fold. A close friend reportedly explained that both Harry and Meghan despise the label and consider it a careless way to describe their daily lives. According to the source, while the couple no longer represents the formal institution, they remain blood relatives who put in long hours on their independent careers. It was further claimed that their daily routines revolve around raising their children and managing their projects, with Meghan reportedly running her business operations seven days a week.
The debate comes shortly after the couple made a joint public appearance in Nottingham during their return to the United Kingdom. Alongside their frustration over how their work ethic is framed, reports suggest the pair is equally unhappy with being called "former royals." An insider claimed that while visits like the Nottingham trip are not carried out on behalf of the Crown, Harry remains the King's son. The acquaintance reportedly argued that using the word "former" is inaccurate and negatively shapes how the public talks about them.
However, these reported complaints may cause further tension with the palace. According to reports, King Charles has not met with his younger son or daughter-in-law since their arrival in the country. Furthermore, it has been claimed that the monarch recently sent a firm written notice to government branches, military leaders, and lord lieutenants regarding the couple. In that message, the King reportedly stressed that Harry and Meghan do not hold official roles and instructed officials to treat them strictly as private individuals pursuing their own business and charity goals.
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Key Takeaways
- According to reports, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle strongly dislike the common term used to separate active palace figures from non-official ones.
- A close acquaintance claimed the couple feels they are still part of the royal family and work seven days a week on their own ventures.
- The Duke and Duchess of Sussex reportedly believe that calling them "former royals" gives the public a false impression after their recent Nottingham appearance.
- Reports indicate that King Charles recently sent an official notice instructing authorities to treat the couple strictly as private citizens.

