“We are clearly very concerned about allegations in The Times following claims made by former staff of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex,” the palace said in a statement. “Accordingly our HR team will look into the circumstances outlined in the article. Members of staff involved at the time, including those who have left the Household, will be invited to participate to see if lessons can be learned.” The statement continued, “The Royal Household has had a Dignity at Work policy in place for a number of years and does not and will not tolerate bullying or harassment in the workplace.” It is unclear if the investigation will be internal or if outside resources will be used. On Tuesday night, The Times reported that three former staffers complained that the Duchess of Sussex bullied them to the point of tears. Sources claimed that in October 2018, Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan’s then-communications secretary, Jason Knauf, contacted human resources about the former Suits actress allegedly driving two personal assistants to quit and undermining the confidence of a third employee. The report also alleged that Prince Harry requested Knauf not pursue the issue. Lawyers for the Sussexes denied that Prince Harry interfered and blasted Buckingham Palace for what they claimed was a “calculated smear campaign,” adding, “We are disappointed to see this defamatory portrayal of The Duchess of Sussex given credibility by a media outlet. It’s no coincidence that distorted several-year-old accusations aimed at undermining The Duchess are being briefed to the British media shortly before she and The Duke are due to speak openly and honestly about their experience of recent years.” The Sussexes, who are expecting their second child, will tell their side of the royal drama on Sunday, March 7 during a sitdown with Oprah Winfrey. Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan’s statement continued, “The Duchess is saddened by this latest attack on her character, particularly as someone who has been the target of bullying herself and is deeply committed to supporting those who have experienced pain and trauma. She is determined to continue her work building compassion around the world and will keep striving to set an example for doing what is right and doing what is good.” Last month, Buckingham Palace announced that Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan would not return to their roles as senior royals, noting, “It is not possible [for them] to continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service.” The Duke and Duchess released a statement of their own, reading in part, “We can all live a life of service. Service is universal.” Duchess Meghan previously claimed that she felt “unprotected” by the royals and their teams, especially while she was pregnant with son Archie, who will turn 2 this May. Harry revealed on Carpool Karaoke With James Cordenthat he saw their move as “stepping back,” not stepping down, to protect their own mental health, saying, “I did what any husband and what any father would do.” Next, relive Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s fairytale 2018 royal wedding!
