Meghan Markle has said she cannot “stay silent” if the Royal Family persisted in “perpetuating falsehoods” about her and her husband Prince Harry.

The Duchess of Sussex told Oprah Winfrey in a two-hour television interview that “a lot…has been lost already”.

In the 30-second clip released on social media, Winfrey asked the duchess:

“How do you feel about the Palace hearing you speak your truth today?”

Meghan replied: “I don’t know how they could expect that, after all of this time, we would still just be silent if there is an active role that The Firm [Royal Family] is playing in perpetuating falsehoods about us.

“And, if that comes with risk of losing things, I mean, I … there is a lot that has been lost already.”

The comments come as Buckingham Palace launched an investigation into claims the Duchess “bullied” staff.

Past and present employees have been asked to talk in confidence about their time working for Meghan.

It is claimed the former actress “drove out” two personal assistants.

The Times newspaper reported the Duchess “destroyed” one member of staff.

Another was left in tears.

Buckingham Palace said in a statement:

“We are clearly very concerned about allegations in the Times following claims made by former staff of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

“Accordingly, our HR team will look into the circumstances outlined in the article.

“Members of staff involved at the time, including those who have left the household, will be invited to participate to see if lessons can be learned.

“The Royal Household has had a dignity at work policy in place for a number of years and does not and will not tolerate bullying or harassment in the workplace.”

Meghan’s spokesman 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.

“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.”