I think that in respect of the Royal family, one has to realise that 'protocol' is key. There are rules for everything. e. He was allegedly irritated that he was not permitted to wear the insignia EIIR, on his epaulettes. The rule states that 'serving' officers may wear - others may not. He is not in the military. He was however, given special dispensation by the King to wear a uniform at the vigil, in the Sovereign's gift.
All this hoo hah comes down to the fact that they, as a couple jumped ship and bailed out of Royal service - live with it.......