Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Did Not Ban Their Neighbors From Speaking to Them

Photo credit: Samir Hussein - Getty Images
Photo credit: Samir Hussein - Getty Images

From Town & Country

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex only moved in to Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor estate a few months ago, but their presence has quickly impacted the community.

Earlier this weekend, British tabloid The Sun reported that Harry and Meghan's neighbors had been given a list of demands instructing them how to behave in the presence of the royal couple and in the vicinity of their home.

Those living near the Sussexes' residence, including royal staff, were reportedly given a number of "dos and don'ts" which included the following guidelines:

Don't approach or instigate conversation if you see the Royal couple

Do say 'Good Morning' or some other pleasantry if they speak to you

Don't pet or stroke their dogs, even if they come over to you

Don't offer to walk their dogs

Don't ask to see baby Archie or offer to babysit

Don't post anything through the letterbox of Frogmore Cottage

Now, Buckingham Palace has issued a statement responding to the rumors of such a list of rules. A spokesperson has clarified that while "guidance" was offered to the community in a meeting, Meghan and Harry were not the ones to create a mandate; rather, the direction was issued by an "overly protective palace official."

"The Duke and Duchess didn't request this, didn't know about it, and had nothing to do with the content or guidance offered," said a spokesperson, according to ITV.

According to the Sun, a spokesperson also clarified that "this was a well-intentioned briefing to help a small local community know how to welcome two new residents and help them with any potential encounter."

Following the birth of their first child, Archie Harrison, Meghan and Harry have sought to give him as private a life as possible. Notably, the Sussexes did not release the names of Archie's godparents, as they are private citizens, and they did not allow the press to document the royal family arriving or leaving his christening. But they have posed for a number of family portraits in recent weeks.

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