With the Queen’s blessing

Almost a week ago, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle shocked the world and the Royal Palace by announcing that they are stepping back as senior members of the monarchy. Now, with the Queen’s approval, the couple and their baby boy will be officially moving to Canada.

In a statement released by Queen Elizabeth II, the matriarch voiced her support for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. “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,” she wrote. “It has therefore been agreed that there will be a period of transition in which the Sussexes will spend time in Canada and the U.K.”

The couple and their seven month-old Archie recently took a six-week break, spending the holidays in Canada. Days after returning from their vacation, the Harry and Meghan released a surprising statement, announcing that they are stepping away from their roles as full time royals.

According to the BBC, no other royal – including the Queen or Prince William – was consulted before the statement and Buckingham Palace is “disappointed”.

Buckingham palace has released a statement, reading: “Discussions with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage,” the short statement read. “We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through.”

As surprising as the announcement is, it was somewhat expected, as the couple were rumoured to be looking for a house outside the UK late last year. Not only that, but Meghan has been facing immense scrutiny from British tabloids, which lead to Prince Harry filling multiple lawsuits against them for their treatment of his wife, which he compared to the treatment of his late mother, Princess Diana.

The news was met with a mixed reaction from the public and the press, with some supporting their brave decision to step back and focus on their family, while others criticised them for spending tax payers money on their wedding and renovation of their home. Whether they will keep their royal titles is yet unclear, but some feel that if they no longer wish to take on royal duties, they should be stripped of their titles.

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