Queen Elizabeth bans Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from monetising ‘Sussex Royal’ label

Recall that the couple made a shock announcement in January, stepping down from their roles as senior royals in order to become financially independent. A series of talks followed their announcement and the couple were allowed to step back.

They had to give some things up, however, like the HRH part of their titles, and they have to repay the £2.4 million that they received for the renovation of Frogmore cottage.

That didn’t change their minds though. Since they stepped down, the couple has tried to secure a trademark for ‘Sussex Royal’. It is believed that they planned to use the trademark for a range of items and activities, including clothing, stationery, books and teaching materials.

They have also taken steps to set up a new charitable organization: Sussex Royal, The Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

It appears that the plans have been destroyed, however, as the Queen has barred them from using the word ‘royal’ in their branding because they “simply cannot sell themselves as royals”.

A source told the Daily Mail: “In many ways, this is inevitable given their decision to step down, but it must surely come as a blow to the couple as they have invested everything into the Sussex Royal brand The Queen would have had little choice, however.

“The Sussexes’ original plan – of being half-in, half-out working royals – was never going to work. Obviously, as the Queen has made clear, they are still much-loved members of her family.

“But if they aren’t carrying out official duties and are now seeking other commercial opportunities, they simply cannot be allowed to market themselves as royals.”