Harry and Meghan 'Surprised' by King's Letter Reaffirming Non-Working Royal Status

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were reportedly "surprised" at receiving little notice before a formal letter was sent to government departments and the military on behalf of King Charles, reiterating their status as non-working members of the royal family, according to a report by the Guardian.

The letter was issued shortly after Harry and Meghan returned to the United Kingdom from the United States two weeks ago, the report said.

According to the Guardian, it is understood that the couple had insufficient time to clarify any points before details of the letter were released to the media.

The Guardian's report did not specify the exact contents of the letter beyond its restating of the couple's existing status, nor did it provide further detail on the timeline of communications between the palace and the Sussexes prior to the letter's release.

Buckingham Palace and representatives for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have not been quoted directly in the available reporting regarding the circumstances surrounding the letter's issuance.