/Prince Harry and Meghan Markle news – live: Royal family ‘hurt’ over couples decision to step back from duties, as world reacts

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle news – live: Royal family ‘hurt’ over couples decision to step back from duties, as world reacts

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry news live: Latest royal family updates as couple prepare to step back | The Independent


LiveUpdated

Thursday 9 January 2020 08:29

National newspapers launch scathing attacks on Duke and Duchess of Sussex

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not consult the Queen or the Prince of Wales about their announcement they plan to ”step back” from royal life, it has emerged.

Several national newspapers have launched scathing attacks on Harry and Meghan Markle, accusing them of showing no understanding for what their roles entailed and of being disrespectful to the Queen.

The mood at Buckingham Palace is understood to be one of disappointment, with the BBC reporting that senior royals have been “hurt” by the announcement.

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2020-01-09T08:26:07.240Z

Fans expressed both surprise and support for the couple after they announced they would be stepping back from their duties, Chelsea Ritschel writes.


2020-01-09T08:09:46.110Z

The mood at Buckingham Palace is understood to be one of disappointment, while the BBC has reported that senior royals have been “hurt” by the announcement.

The sequence of events is likely to lead commentators to speculate whether a rift has developed at the heart of the monarchy.


2020-01-09T07:58:13.093Z

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not consult with the Queen or the Prince of Wales about the contents of their statement saying they plan to step away from royal life, it has emerged.

 

It is understood Harry and Meghan had just begun talks with the Queen and Charles about their future roles when they made their decision to go public.

 

The head of state and her son were only recently informed of the Sussexes intention to explore their public positions as members of the monarchy, and were not aware the statement was due to be issued.