Hours after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex confirmed they would no longer be moving forward with their planned “Sussex Royal” brand after The Queen intervened, the couple posted a statement on their website to make it clear that they did still have the right to the word “royal.”
The statement read, “While there is not any jurisdiction by The Monarchy or Cabinet Office over the use of the word ‘Royal’ overseas, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex do not intend to use ‘Sussex Royal’ or any iteration of the word ‘Royal’ in any territory (either within the UK or otherwise) when the transition occurs Spring 2020.”
The new statement from the couple indicated negotiations were tense with Buckingham Palace over the terms of their upcoming departure from the Royal Family on March 31st. It states their “preference” had been to “continue to represent and support Her Majesty The Queen, albeit in a more limited capacity.” But it also appeared to be a complaint that they had been treated differently than other members of the family.
The statement continued, “While there is precedent for other titled members of the Royal Family to seek employment outside of the institution, for The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, a 12-month review period has been put in place. Per the agreement, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex understand that they are required to step back from Royal duties and not undertake representative duties on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen.”
They also confirmed they would be closing their London office, based at the Palace, saying they “have remained actively involved in this process, which has understandably been a saddening for The Duke and Duchess and their loyal staff, given the closeness of Their Royal Highnesses and their dedicated team.”
