Lady C explains the real reason why Harold and Meghan Markle are so upset about the recent issuance from Buckingham Palace:
So, The King has spoken through the Lord Chamberlain. And what he has to say makes chilling hearing for Harry and Meghan. At least to those of us who understand palacespeak.
Not only does he affirm that Harry and Meghan no longer possess royal status, but he confirms that fact, for the first time, by pointing out that their HRH styles are in abeyance. Those last words ‘in abeyance’ are a legal term with legal significance – something which was fudged when the original Sandringham Agreement was announced. At that time, it was merely stated that they would not be using their Royal Highness styles; now, by stating that they are in abeyance, he is asserting that they no longer hâve the right to use them at ail.
Doubling down on their loss of royal status, the Lord Chamberlain emphasises this fact by stating, “(i)n short, their position is akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests.”
In other words, no one needs to bow or curtsy to Harry and Meghan. This is ratified with sutblety and elegance in the recommendation that those who hâve questions about the courtesies to which they think Harry and Meghan might be entitled, should refer to Buckingham Palace, whose guidance, off the record, will be as it was with regards to the Duchess of Windsor. No HRH, no bowing or curtsying. Make it plain that you know she’s (they’re) not royal by treating them the way you would any other non-royal – with good manners, respect, but none of the affirmations that are a part of royal conduct.
Interesting. One had always assumed that King Charles would be weaker than his mother, but at least in this one regard, he has proven to possess a firmer hand. Of course, it’s hardly uncommon for a grandmother to be excessively indulgent.