THE TWO HISTORIC STATEMENTS AND WHAT THEY MEAN

Mentioning their Sussex titles at the start tells us that the couple intend to keep their official style. They are ‘grateful’ because Megxit talks have not dragged out too long so they’ve not been forced to compromise their demands. Unlike the Queen, whose life has been one long chapter of public service, the Sussexes believe that their own lives can be separated into many different chapters. By stressing this deal was agreed by all involved, Harry and Meghan wish the public to believe this was a joint decision by all the royal family and to downplay the fact that they were largely responsible for the schism. As a former soldier who earned a knight commander of the Royal Victorian Order for service in Afghanistan, Harry will sorely miss his links with the military. Well aware of resistance to them continuing to receive public funds – one poll last weekend showed 60% of British people didn’t want them to have taxpayer-funded security – the financial aspect of the deal is given high priority. Not using their HRH titles prevents history repeating itself as Harry’s mother, despite her insistence otherwise, was stripped of the title of her royal highness. The Sovereign Grant – paid by the British government from taxes to the royal family and worth ¤96million a year – has provided 5% of their income. This may no longer be paid but there is no mention of the estimated £2.3million (¤2.7million) a year handed to them by Prince Charles from his investments. By stressing that Frogmore Cottage remains their ‘UK family home’, they’re leaving the door open to the possibility that they could one day base themselves in Britain. Given recent events, that’s very unlikely.