Harry and Meghan "surprised" by king's letter

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan's spokesperson says the couple

was surprised by a letter sent on behalf of King Charles

clarifying they were no longer working members of the royal

family and they would remain private citizens.

This following the two's return to Britain last month with

their children after stepping back from their official

royal duties and relocating to America six years ago.

Royal commentator Jennie Bond says King Charles' letter was a move to "seize the agenda."

"I don't think that Harry and Meghan have had any ambition to be working

royals again, but they still harbour desire to be half in, half out, and actually

I really think they've achieved it," said Bond.

"What they haven't got is the security they want,

but they are even as private citizens, as the statement makes very clear,

going to be carrying out charity engagements. They will be in demand, of course

they'll be in demand. He is the King's son. Meghan is box office still,

whether you like her or you don't, she's box office. So they will be on demand

and I think they'll be carrying out those engagements, but it's being made

very clear to the people who organise those events that the Palace

does not want them to be treated as royals with all the bells and whistles."