The members of the royal family are discouraged from accepting presents. However, Meghan Markle reportedly did, and Prince Harry seemingly confirmed it in his book Spare.
Meghan Markle Broke Royal Protocol Concerning Freebies And Gifts?
The Duchess of Sussex allegedly broke the royal family's protocol of not accepting presents when she became a member of the firm, Express reported. The royals should not accept gifts that might appear to place them under any obligation to the donor, based on the Palace guidelines.
However, Markle reportedly accepted the presents given to her. Her husband, Prince Harry, seemingly confirmed it in his newly released memoir.
"She shared all the freebies she received, clothes and perfumes and make-up, with all the women in the office," Prince Harry wrote.
The Telegraph's royal correspondent Camilla Tominey also previously reported that when Markle "came on the scene," she allegedly expected to "keep some of the dresses" loaned to her.
Royal commentator Daniela Elser didn't think the issue was a huge offense. However, it only reportedly reflected Markle's view of the palace's protocol.
"Accepting a free cashmere jumper or some fig and bergamot-scented thingumabob is hardly a Tower-worthy offence," she said per Express.
"But, what this situation highlights is what looks like the gulf that existed between the Duchess' view of royal life and palace rigidity and protocol."
Meghan Markle Fights With Assistant Over Free Gifts?
Royal author Valentine Low claimed in his 2021 book Courtiers that there were clashes between Markle and her assistant Melissa Toubati over free gifts that some companies would send to the former Suits star.
"Toubati was apparently punctilious in following the household rule that members of the Royal Family cannot accept freebies from commercial organisations. Her approach did not go down well with Meghan," Low wrote.
A report from The Sun echoed the same sentiment. Markle allegedly fought with her staffers over free designer clothes because she wanted to keep them, and her aides allegedly needed to tell her it was against royal protocol.
"As an actress, it was perfectly acceptable to take freebies sent by fashion chains and designer labels," an anonymous source told The Sun. "But Meghan had to be told it was not the done thing when you are a member of the Royal Family."
Royal Palace's Rules Over Gifts
Under the palace's protocol, any gifts offered by businesses should "normally be declined" unless they are souvenir of an official visit to the enterprises' premises or to mark a royal marriage or special personal occasion.
The rules also stated that the consent of the member of the royal family should depend on the business, not exploiting the present for commercial purposes. Otherwise, gifts should "always be returned" unless not justified due to the cost.
If presents are not returned, they should be treated as official gifts.
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