Prince Harry and his wife Meghan have made a final split with the British royal family, telling Queen Elizabeth that they will not be returning as working members of the monarchy.
The split means that Prince Harry and Meghan will lose their treasured royal patronages which revert to the queen and will be distributed among other family members.
Buckingham Palace reported Friday:
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have confirmed to Her Majesty The Queen that they will not be returning as working members of The Royal Family.
While all are saddened by their decision, the Duke and Duchess remain much loved members of the family.
Prince Harry and Meghan announced in January 2020 that they were splitting from the family and embarking on a new future across the Atlantic.
The sudden announcement sent shock waves through the monarchy and the split is one of the most extraordinary royal exits in decades.
Responding to the split, 94-year-old Queen Elizabeth, whose 99-year-old husband, Prince Philip, is currently in hospital in London, took a firm line. She said:
The queen has written confirming that in stepping away from the work of the royal family it is not possible to continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service.
Prince Harry and Meghan who are expecting a second child got married in 2018. They now reside in Canada.
More: BBC News