MEGHAN BROKE CONTACT WITH FATHER IN LETTER CITING ABUSE CLAIMS

Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has said her decision to distance herself and her children from her father, Thomas Markle, followed disturbing allegations brought to her attention in a letter.

In a statement released on Friday, Meghan said she had been shown the letter in 2018 and understood that authorities were investigating its claims.

She said protecting her children was the reason she had prevented contact with their grandfather.

Her statement followed reports that authorities in the Philippines were investigating allegations concerning child sexual abuse material allegedly linked to her father. Thomas Markle has denied the accusations.

London’s Metropolitan Police subsequently confirmed receiving a letter in January 2019 containing claims about alleged offences outside the United Kingdom.

The force said it passed the information to the office of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex but did not share the allegations with other law enforcement agencies.

Police are now reviewing how the matter was handled, including whether a referral to the police watchdog is necessary.

The dates given by Meghan and the Metropolitan Police differ. The allegations remain under investigation and have not been established as facts.