King Charles has made a bold move to clear his position on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as the couple have returned to the UK. In a letter to "senior stakeholders", including the government, military, and Lord Lieutenancies, from his Lord Chamberlain, the monarch made clear that the "Sandringham agreement" still stands - they are private individuals and are no longer working members of the royal family.

The King's office has confirmed the couple's charity work is a "personal matter" and their position is "akin to private citizens". The King's strong message suggests he will never turn his back on Prince William and Princess Kate, who stand with the monarchy in all circumstances. Royal commentator Rebecca English also shared the letter, which was released by the Palace as reported by several outlets.

The letter read: "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." It added: "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."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's return to the UK has sparked speculation that the Sussexes could be offered some form of half-in, half-out role within the Royal Family, particularly as they look to rebuild links with British charities and undertake more public-facing work. However, a new message setting out King Charles's position appears to close the door on any formal return to the working monarchy, confirming that the Sandringham agreement reached under the late Queen Elizabeth II remains in force.