Iain Cameron via Flickr CC
The Queen has said the Sussexes will always be much loved members of her family.
In a statement released on Saturday evening, the 93-year-old monarch thanked Harry & Meghan for their work and dedication as they plan to bow out as working royals.
The Queen’s statement in full:
“Following many months of conversations and more recent discussions, I am pleased that together we have found a constructive and supportive way forward for my grandson and his family.
“Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved members of my family.
“I recognise the challenges they have experienced as a result of intense scrutiny over the last two years and support their wish for a more independent life.
“I want to thank them for all their dedicated work across this country, the Commonwealth and beyond, and am particularly proud of how Meghan has so quickly become one of the family.
“It is my whole family’s hope that today’s agreement allows them to start building a happy and peaceful new life.”
Saturday’s statement was another rare example of The Queen speaking to the public informally about her family, and what the way forward will be.
It has also been announced that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will no longer use their royal titles as they step back as senior royals.
The couple will also no longer receive public funds for any royal duties they undertake, and will repay £2.4m of taxpayer money for the refurbishment of Frogmore Cottage
They won’t now formally represent The Queen as they go about their business as they aim to spend the majority of their time in North America.