Lady Colin Campbell Criticizes Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Over Sussex Name Usage

Lady Colin Campbell has publicly criticized Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for their use of the ‘Sussex’ name in their Sussex.com website. Campbell argues that this usage is both misleading and inappropriate, as the website has no actual connection to the county of Sussex. She describes the move as an “imposition” and an “impertinence” to the people of Sussex.

Campbell further asserts that while the title of Duke and Duchess of Sussex geographically associates them with the county, it does not make them representatives of it. She emphasizes that many residents of Sussex do not share the couple’s values and, in fact, deplore what they represent. Campbell suggests a more appropriate domain name would have been dukeandduchessofsussex.co.uk, rather than one that implies a broader connection to the county.

The revamped Sussex.com website has also raised legal concerns. Royal journalist Michael Cole explains that when Harry and Meghan moved to North America, they were explicitly told they could retain their honorific titles but were not allowed to use them for personal gain. Their new website, which features their royal coat of arms and titles, could potentially be in violation of this agreement. According to Cole, it is illegal for senior or junior British royals to use their regal status for financial purposes, a rule made “crystal clear” by the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Cole also points out that using ‘Sussex’ as a surname is incorrect. The name Sussex refers to two counties in England, West Sussex and East Sussex. Prince Harry’s birth name is Mountbatten-Windsor, reflecting the family name of the British royal family.

The actions of Harry and Meghan regarding their title have reportedly caused significant annoyance at Buckingham Palace. Cole notes that the palace’s response to such breaches of protocol typically involves careful observation before taking any formal action. He adds that while the couple’s actions are unlikely to endear them to the royal family, it remains to be seen whether there will be a formal reprimand or a request to cease and desist.

The controversy surrounding the use of the Sussex name highlights ongoing tensions between Harry and Meghan and the rest of the royal family. Lady Colin Campbell’s sharp criticism and Michael Cole’s legal concerns underline the complexities and sensitivities involved in the couple’s attempts to navigate their post-royal lives. As Harry and Meghan continue to redefine their roles outside of the royal framework, the reactions from both the public and the palace will be closely watched.