March 2021
Dear Constituent,
Thank you for writing to me about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the Royal Family.
I have the utmost respect for the Royal Family. The contribution of The Queen and the wider Royal Family to the public life of the UK is significant, and they are a great asset to our country.
Buckingham Palace has been clear that the issues raised by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex following their departure are concerning, particularly those regarding race. The Royal Family has said that whilst recollections of specific incidents may vary, the issues will be addressed by the family privately.
The couple stepped down as senior royals in March 2020 and confirmed in February 2021 that they would not be returning as working members of the Royal Family. The military appointments and patronages held by the Duke and Duchess have been returned to The Queen.
Asked about these matters at a coronavirus briefing, the Prime Minister stated his huge personal admiration for The Queen, but reaffirmed his position of not commenting on Royal Family matters. I believe this is appropriate, and should continue to be the position of the Prime Minister and of the Government.
Thank you again for writing to me.
With best wishes.
Kind regards,
Jonathan Lord MP
Member of Parliament for Woking