The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Monarch states royal family is supportive of Harry, Meghan
Queen Elizabeth II announced Monday that she and her royal family were “entirely supportive” of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s “desire to create a new life” and that she had agreed to a “period of transition” during which the couple would split their time between Canada and Britain. In a statement, the 93-year-old monarch wrote, “Although we would have preferred them to remain full-time working Members of the Royal Family, we respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family.” What’s the significance?
The palace was caught off guard when the couple announced last week that they would be “stepping back” from their roles as senior royals and wanted to split their time between Britain and North America.
Decisions about Harry and Meghan’s new roles could have implications for the future shape of the British monarchy and for royals down the line of succession.
Earlier Monday, Prince Harry and his brother, Prince William, who is in line to the throne, issued a separate and unusual joint statement, batting down “offensive and potentially harmful” reports that bullying by William had pushed Harry and Meghan away.
Some issues still need sorting out:
■ Residences. Meghan lived in Toronto for many years while filming the TV show “Suits,” but their options in Canada are fairly open. As for Britain, the couple want to live at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor. They spent $3 million on renovations there.
■ Income. The couple say they want to be “financially independent,” but will they forgo the more than $6 million a year they get from Prince Charles via his estate?
■ Security. On their website, Harry and Meghan note that armed security is mandated by the British Home Office. But if the couple spends much of their time overseas, British taxpayers may balk at paying for their security.