The Future of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex
Her Majesty the Queen released a statement earlier today discussing the future of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex within the Royal Family. Queen Elizabeth shared that Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved members of her family but they will no longer be official representatives of the Queen.
This new arrangement includes that they will no longer use their HRH titles as they will not be working members of the Royal Family. As they step back from Royal duties, which includes Prince Harry stepping back from his three Military Appointments, they will no longer receive public funding. The couple will keep their private patronages and associations with the blessing of the Queen.
Meghan and Harry also shared their wish to pay back the home refurbishment for their residence at Frogmore Cottage and the Cottage will remain their family home while they are in the U.K. While they will continue to have access the Frogmore Cottage it has been reported that they will be spending the majority of their time in North America, most likely in Canada.
The statement did not include any additional information about the couples announcement to no longer participate in the Royal Rota and did not disclose whether they would continue to receive allowances from the Duchy of Cornwall. While it did include the Queens support for them to have a more "independent life" it did not disclose whether or not the Queen gave her blessing for them to become "financially independent".
Her Majesty thanked the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for their work in the United Kingdom and across the commonwealth. She also mentioned her pride in Meghan so quickly becoming one of the family. It has been reported that all sides are happy with the outcome and there would be "scope for the Royal Family to review the situation in 2021" according to reporter, Omid Scobie.
While more information has been released since the initial announcement from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, this will not take effect until Spring 2020 and therefore there will likely be more announcements made about this in the coming weeks and months. xx