JANUARY 18, 2020
Britain’s Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex gesture during their visit to Canada House in thanks for the warm Canadian hospitality and support they received during their recent stay in Canada, in London on January 7, 2020. (Photo by DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS / various sources / AFP) (Photo by DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP via Getty Images)
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have struck a deal with the royal family which will see them keep their HRH titles but not use them.
The couple will no longer be known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex once the deal kicks in in the Spring.
They will also keep Frogmore Cottage, but will pay back Sovereign Grant money used to upgrade the property.
Harry and Meghan will spend more of their time in Canada and will not carry out duties from the Spring.
Prince Charles will continue to pay the couple money from the Duchy of Cornwall.
“Following many months of conversations and more recent discussions, I am pleased that together we have found a constructive and supportive way forward for my grandson and his family,” The Queen wrote in a statement released at 6.30pm on Saturday.
“Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved members of my family.
“I recognized the challenges they have experienced as a result of intense scrutiny over the last two years and support their wish for a more independent life.
“I want to thank them for all their dedicated work across this country, the Commonwealth and beyond, and am particularly proud of how Meghan has so quickly become one of the family.
“It is my whole family’s hope that today’s agreement allows them to start building a happy and peaceful new life.”
The announcement comes the week after the couple expressed their intentions to step back from their senior roles in the Royal Family and work to become “financially independent”.
They added they intend to split their time between the UK and Canada.
“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,” the royal couple said in their official statement last week.
“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.”
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made the announcement this evening. – AFP via Getty Images
At the end of last week Meghan flew out to Vancouver in Canada to be with her son Archie.
Harry stayed behind in the UK to discuss their future with senior royal family members.
He joined The Queen, Prince Charles and Prince William for the talks at Sandringham.
After drawing the Rugby League World Cup groups on Thursday at Buckingham Palace, the Prince was seen having a beer with friends at a Fulham pub today.
Courtesy/Source: Mirror
