Harry and Meghan Face Fresh Scrutiny Over Finances
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are facing renewed attention on their post-royal finances as a formal review of royal property arrangements looms this summer, with claims from those close to the couple that life has become “more challenging” since they became financially independent. The discussion comes as Parliament prepares to examine how Crown Estate-linked homes are leased and funded across the Royal Family.
Cambridge News reported that a source close to the Sussexes said the couple no longer have support from the Sovereign Grant or access to homes maintained at public expense, but described their current situation as “an independent and entirely self-funded life”. The same source also suggested Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had planned to repay the reported £2.4 million spent refurbishing Frogmore Cottage.
According to the report, the couple reimbursed the renovation costs and paid market rent on Frogmore Cottage after stepping back from royal duties in 2020, and a Palace spokesperson later confirmed they had “fulfilled their financial obligations” relating to the property. The article also notes reports that Frogmore Cottage could be subdivided again after remaining largely unoccupied, as wider questions are raised about subsidised royal housing arrangements.
The latest focus on Frogmore follows earlier coverage that the Windsor property has remained empty since the Sussexes’ departure, as attention shifts to how other royal residences are occupied and maintained.
With the Public Accounts Committee set to investigate Crown Estate arrangements, the outcome could sharpen debate over transparency and whether working and non-working royals should be treated like other public bodies when it comes to property costs and accountability.
