A sad Prince Harry has said he had no choice but to give up his royal duties, funds and titles in a deal with Queen Elizabeth and the Royal Family.
Buckingham Palace on Saturday announced that Harry and Meghan would no longer be working members of Britain’s monarchy, no longer use their “Royal Highness” titles and would now pay their own way in life.
The new arrangement was struck to end a crisis the couple sparked by announcing earlier this month they wanted to cut down on official engagements and spend more time in North America.
Harry and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. File: REUTERS
In a speech to the Sentebale charity on Sunday, a clearly upset Harry said the final outcome was not what he and his American wife had wanted.
“Our hope was to continue serving the queen, the Commonwealth and my military associations without public funding. Sadly, that wasn’t possible,” the prince said.
“I’ve accepted this knowing it doesn’t change who I am, or how committed I am.
“But I hope that helps you understand what it had come to, that I would step back from all I have ever known to take a step forward into what I hope can be a more peaceful life.”
Under the arrangement, Harry will remain a prince and the couple will keep their titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they begin a new life split between Britain and North America where they will spend the majority of their time.
But they will not take part in royal tours or events.