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The Queen Responds To News That Harry And Meghan Will 'Step Back' From Being Senior Royals

The Queen Responds To News That Harry And Meghan Will 'Step Back' From Being Senior Royals

She said that the family 'understand' their decision but that there are also ‘complicated issues’ that need to be worked through

Jess Hardiman

Jess Hardiman

The Queen has officially responded to news that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will 'step back' from their position as senior members of the Royal Family, having said that the family 'understand' their decision but that there are also 'complicated issues' that need to be worked through.

A statement released by the Queen's office read: "Discussions with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage.

"We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through."

PA

Harry and Meghan, who gave birth to their son Archie last May, announced yesterday that they had chosen to shake things up, and would be stepping back to become 'financially independent'.

In a statement released on their joint Instagram account, the pair wrote: "After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution.

PA

"We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen.

"It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment."

The statement continued: "We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages.

"This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity.

"We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: UK News, News, The Queen, Royal Family, Prince Harry, Meghan Markle