Claims Meghan Markle bullied Palace staff STILL being probed after 3 months & final report could be delayed until 2022
CLAIMS Meghan Markle bullied royal staff are still being investigated after more than three months.
The final report from Buckingham Palace's probe was due to be released this week - but it could be delayed until 2022.
- Read our Meghan and Harry live blog for the latest updates
An independent law firm was expected to reveal the finer details in the annual Sovereign Grant report.
But royal sources have confirmed the inquiry is "ongoing", reports.
So it means things could be pushed back until next year's report.
The Palace launched the investigation after the Duchess of Sussex was accused of bullying two senior staff members.
Jason Knauf, who worked in comms for both the Cambridges and the Sussexes, submitted an official email in October 2018.
Meghan allegedly snapped "it’s not my job to coddle people" after aides were left in tears and humiliated by her "difficult demands".
Mr Kauf claimed Meghan's alleged treatment of staff was "totally unacceptable", adding that she "seems intent on always having someone in her sights".
One courtier claimed that the duchess "governed by fear" while it was also reported there was a "febrile" atmosphere.
And another ex-employee alleged they had been personally “humiliated” by Meghan, whose behaviour felt “more like emotional cruelty and manipulation, which I guess could also be called bullying”.
The former actress fiercely denies the claims - and her spokesperson said she's the victim of a "calculated smear campaign".
'SPURIOUS ALLEGATIONS'
They said: "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.
"In a detailed legal letter of rebuttal to The Times, we have addressed these defamatory claims in full, including spurious allegations regarding the use of gifts loaned to The Duchess by The Crown.
"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."
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The Palace said at the time that it was "very concerned by the allegations" and it would "not tolerate bullying and harassment".
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It originally sought to investigate the matter internally, but later opted to pay for an external law firm.
A Palace spokesman said: "Our commitment to look into the circumstances around the allegations from former staff of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is being taken forward but we will not be providing a public commentary on it."