Prince Harry ‘regretted’ Megxit announcement for one heartbreaking reason
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle sent shockwaves through the monarchy when they opted to step back in January 2020. The Prince reportedly harbors some remorse over his handling of the situation.
The couple took to their social media platforms to declare their desire to retreat from being full-time members of the royal family and to seek financial independence. Their statement partially read: “After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution. We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family, and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen.
However, their bold move left family and friends, including Queen Elizabeth herself, quite taken aback.
The Telegraph later reported that Harry regretted the way he “blindsided” his grandmother by failing to consult her beforehand. A source claimed: “I don’t think he fully appreciated the impact the statement would have in terms of them not consulting the Queen. He regrets that.
The Queen issued an unprecedented statement following the announcement, confirming that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were no longer “full-time working members of the royal family.” She expressed her preference for the Sussexes to remain but acknowledged their desire for a more independent life, reports the Mirror.
Harry and Meghan have made clear that they do not want to be reliant on public funds in their new lives,” the Queen stated, adding that a transition period would see the couple splitting their time between Canada and the UK. The Queen admitted these were complex matters requiring further resolution, with final decisions expected in the coming days.
In February 2021, Buckingham Palace released another statement on behalf of the Queen, confirming that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex would not return as working members of the Royal Family.
The statement read: “Following conversations with The Duke, 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. The honorary military appointments and Royal patronages held by The Duke and Duchess will therefore be returned to Her Majesty, before being redistributed among working members of The Royal Family. “While all are saddened by their decision, The Duke and Duchess remain much loved members of the family.