Harry and Meghan's shock decision

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Harry and Meghan go for quiet life

13th January 2020

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have made a shock announcement. Harry and Meghan plan to end their roles as "senior" members of the British Royal Family.

Their statement was made without discussing it with the Royal Family, who are said to be "hurt" by Harry and Meghan's decision and the way it was announced. Buckingham Palace was completely surprised by the announcement. The Palace had started discussions with Harry and Meghan about their future roles.

The announcement demonstrates the clear divisions between the Royal family and the Sussexes. Harry and Meghan say the decision was taken "after many months of reflection and internal discussions." They are keen to become "members of the Royal Family with financial independence" and live between the UK and North America. Their family will gain "the space to focus on the next chapter" while their son Archie retains his royal heritage. They affirmed their commitment to work for the Queen, the Commonwealth, and as charity patrons. Prince Harry remains sixth in line to the throne.

Harry and Meghan's announcement came with a "revised media approach" of engaging with "grassroots media organisations and young, up-and-coming journalists" to reflect "the dramatic transformation of news reporting in the digital age". They have withdrawn from the "royal rota" which provides exclusive access to the mainstream media, and which Harry has accused of a "ruthless campaign" of "relentless propaganda" against Meghan.

The announcement makes the future uncertain for the Royal couple, their relationships inside the Royal Family, and the Royal Family as an institution. Following the recent Prince Andrew scandal, this is a further setback for the institution, which saw Harry and Meghan as key to its 21st century image. Talks between the Palace and Downing Street are examining the realities and whether these new, lighter roles can work. Otherwise, it may signal the start of the couple's departure from the Royal Family.