The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not return as working members of the Royal Family, Buckingham Palace has said.
The Queen confirmed the couple would not “continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service”.
A statement from the palace added Prince Harry and Meghan “remain much loved members of the family”.
The couple said “service is universal” and offered to continue supporting the organisations they have represented.
The duke and duchess said last January they would step back as “senior” royals and work to become financially independent.
They formally stepped down in March, with a plan to review the arrangements after 12 months.
The confirmation means Prince Harry and Meghan, who now live in California, will return their honorary military appointments and Royal patronages.
Their departure follows conversations between Harry and members of the Royal Family.
A statement from Buckingham Palace 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.
“While all are saddened by their decision, the Duke and Duchess remain much loved members of the family.”
A spokesman for Harry and Meghan said: “As evidenced by their work over the past year, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain committed to their duty and service to the UK and around the world, and have offered their continued support to the organisations they have represented regardless of official role.”
They added: “We can all live a life of service. Service is universal.”
BBC
