Prince Harry and Meghan not working royals, says King

The Sussexes' return to the UK will not change their status, says Buckingham Palace

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not be working royals allowed to carry out official engagements now they have returned to the UK, a letter sent on behalf of King Charles spells out.

The letter is intended to clarify the status of Prince Harry and Meghan, who moved back from California with children Archie and Lilibet last month.

They will still not be able to use titles of "His and Her Royal Highness", and remain "private citizens", says the letter sent on behalf of the King by the Lord Chamberlain, a top Palace official.

It comes as Prince Harry appears to have been pictured for the first time since his return, with a photo on social media showing him at a London TV and podcast studio.

Prince Harry and Meghan revealed a surprise return to the UK last month

The King's letter has been sent to Prince Harry's team, government departments, military officials and Lord Lieutenants, according to Palace sources.

Lord Lieutenants, who are the monarch's local representatives, and government staff are often involved in royal visits and engagements.

This letter makes clear that any engagements carried out by the Sussexes will be in a private capacity and they will not be representing the Royal Family.

It seems to be something of a shot across the bows, making clear that any Prince Harry and Meghan visits should not be treated as royal engagements.

This comes ahead of what are likely to be public appearances by the Sussexes this autumn, as they settle in the UK and support their charities.

The couple have kept a low profile, but the first picture of Prince Harry since coming back to the UK appears to have been posted on the social media account of Tower Bridge Studios in London.