The royal letter was written by Lord Benyon, the Lord Chamberlain, and distributed to the Sussexes’ representatives, government departments, senior military figures and Lord Lieutenants.
It restated the arrangements established after Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties in 2020. They do not represent the Sovereign, cannot use the styles His Royal Highness and Her Royal Highness, and will undertake public or charitable engagements independently of the royal family.
The Palace also made clear that any appearance by the Sussexes, including Harry’s work supporting the Invictus Games and other charities, should not be regarded as official royal engagements.
The clarification comes after Harry and Meghan returned to Britain with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, for what has been described as an extended stay.
The BBC also reported that the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, known as Ravec, was meeting this week to consider the level of taxpayer-funded protection the family should receive while living in Britain.
The Home Office does not disclose details of individual security decisions.
“The UK government’s protective security system is rigorous and proportionate. It is our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on those arrangements, as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals’ security,” a Home Office spokesperson told the BBC.
Harry has previously challenged arrangements for his police protection in Britain.