Harry and Meghan explain why they’re stepping back from ‘senior’ royal life

Lifestyle

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have explained why they stepping back as senior members of Royal Family.

As they stunned royal fans across the world with their bombshell announcement, the pair's website explains they want to "earn a professional income, which in the current structure they are prohibited from doing".

On the 'funding' section of their official Sussex Royal website, they highlight their desire to establish new "charitable endeavours" and achieve "financial independence".

The statement reads: "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex take great pride in their work and are committed to continuing their charitable endeavours as well as establishing new ones.

"In addition, they value the ability to earn a professional income, which in the current structure they are prohibited from doing.

"For this reason they have made the choice to become members of the Royal Family with financial independence.

"Their Royal Highnesses feel this new approach will enable them to continue to carry out their duties for Her Majesty The Queen, while having the future financial autonomy to work externally."


  • Meghan Markle and Harry are stepping back as ‘senior’ members of Royal Family

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The couple explain they want to be freed from the 'Sovereign Grant' –  the payment which is paid annually to the monarch by the government to fund the Monarch's official duties.

It covers costs of employing staff at their official Office of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

But the couple say it covers just five percent of the costs and they "prefer to release this financial tie."

"While the contribution from The Sovereign Grant covers just five percent of costs for The Duke and Duchess and is specifically used for their official office expense, Their Royal Highnesses prefer to release this financial tie," the statement reads.


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It adds: "During the course of 2020, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have made the choice to step back as senior members of the Royal Family and no longer receive funding through the Sovereign Grant, thereby making them members of the Royal Family with financial independence.

"This phased approach will take time to transition in consultation with other senior members of the Royal Family, but Their Royal Highnesses are hopeful that this change is in the best interest for all and look forward to carrying out their duties to the monarch as well as their charitable work with financial autonomy."

The Duke and Duchess have tonight rocked the royal world with a statement on their  Instagram  page – saying they plan to make a move to North America this year.

Their statement 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.

"It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment. We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages."

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