Photo by DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS – WPA Pool/Getty Images
In huge news for the Royal Family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have chosen to ‘step back’ from their roles as senior members of the British monarchy. The ultra-popular couple have confirmed that they will embark on an ‘independent’ life. They will also be splitting their time between the UK and Canada (where Meghan was based before she joined the Royal Family). The shocking news comes just after the couple returned to England from a six-week sabbatical with their son, Archie, in Canada.
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The couple released a statement on their Instagram page in which they explained that they’re working towards becoming ‘financially independent’. They will still however continue to honour their duty to “The Queen, the Commonwealth, and their patronages”.
Have a look at the full heartfelt post below:
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Harry and Meghan’s residence
The family’s decision not to attend the traditional royal family 2019 Christmas in England seemed to rock the boat… Instead, breaking with tradition, Harry, Meghan and Archie spent private family time together with Meghan’s mom, Doria Ragland.
The details as to where exactly they’ll be residing in Canada are still vague… But the little family spent Christmas on Vancouver Island just off the Canadian coast. Perhaps this was the first clue as to the couple’s break from traditional monarchy?
The couple’s royal website states that they will retain their UK residence at Frogmore Cottage at Windsor. For the time being, it seems that this will remain their only official residence. They’ve specifically chosen to use the cottage with permission of Her Majesty The Queen so that “their family will always have a place to call home in the United Kingdom”.
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Financial independence
According to their website, the couple have made this decision in order to better pursue their charitable endeavours. Moreover, this ‘stepping back’ allows them to earn a professional income – something they are not allowed to do in their traditional roles. In this way, they will be independent from conventional royal funding structures.
The pair has always garnered major public support for their humility and reliability. This decision is simply a continuation of their grassroots, non-pretentious leadership style.
For Meghan and Harry, 2020 will be a year of great change. We look forward to seeing what they get up to at home and abroad.