Palace ‘appoints outside lawyers to probe Meghan Markle bullying claims’

‘The actual worst incidences haven’t come out. There are some harrowing stories to tell’, royal source tells Sunday Times

Buckingham Palace has hired an outside law firm to conduct an independent inquiry into bullying claims made against the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle.

Last week, in the lead up to Meghan and Harry’s eagerly anticipated Oprah interview, Palace sources were quoted as saying that the Palace was “prepared to retaliate with fresh disclosures about the couple’s behaviour if the monarchy is attacked”.

That retaliation has now arrived as The Sunday Times reports that, in a surprise move, the Palace will be bringing in a third-party law firm to conduct an investigation into the bullying claims.

Jason Knauf, who at the time was the Sussexes’ communications secretary, made the complaint against the duchess in 2018, alleging that she drove two personal assistant out and undermined the confidence of a third.

A royal source told The Sunday Times: “The actual worst incidences haven’t come out. There are some harrowing stories to tell.” Another Palace source said: “There’s a lot that could come out in the wash that hasn’t been told.”

Responding to the allegations earlier this month, Meghan’s spokesperson said: “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.”

Meanwhile Prince Harry has also been accused of “hypocrisy” by allies of the Prince of Wales, claiming that Harry was not “cut off” by his father, who, they claim, was financially supporting the Duke until they “found their feet” in America.

The fallout of the Royal Family is being watched around the world and the outcome is seen as important to the future direction of the UK monarchy.

The Duke of Cambridge, who it is said has only recently spoken to his brother following the interview, said last week that the family was “very much not racist”.

The Sussexes are not expected to be invited to take part in the inquiry, despite having written to the Palace about it. The review aims to “learn lessons” by taking evidence from members of staff past and present.

According to the Times, the Palace is determined the inquiry should “not be played out in public” to ensure all those taking part “feel comfortable”. It is thought the inquiry will begin immediately, with no deadline. A royal source said: “It will take as long as it will takes.”

Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the report.