MEG'S MOVE?
Prince Harry is ‘doing what he’s told’ by Meghan Markle, royal photographer claims
THE SUN'S royal photographer Arthur Edwards claimed Prince Harry is “just doing what he is told” by Meghan Markle, following them stepping down as ‘senior’ royals.
Arthur appeared on Good Morning Britain today following the Duke and Duchess of Sussex announcing last night that they are "stepping back" from royal duties.
6
The news follows the couple taking a six-week break from royal duties, heading to Canada with their seven-month-old son Archie.
Host Susanna Reid said: “Maybe while they were away, they realised how much they enjoyed that experience of not having all those photographers.
“Maybe they came back and were like, ‘do you know what, that’s what we’d prefer'.”
Arthur replied: “I think maybe she said that.
6
"I think what’s happened now is it has divided the royal family.
“I think Harry is just doing what he is told personally.”
Viscountess Hinchingbrooke disagreed that the bold announcement was purely down to .
She said: “I think Harry has lost his mother aged 12, had to walk behind her in a carriage in front of millions. That has massively affected him.
“When you have children, they become your everything. He is out there not only protect Archie but to protect his wife.”
6
Arthur added: "I'm sad he is going because working with Harry has been a joy.
"Every tour I've ever been on with him has been fun. He makes it fun, he's a lovely character. I think it's sad we won't see much more of him."
He added that he saw a difference with the duke on the Sussex's Africa tour earlier this year.
Arthur said: "Normally at the end of a tour with Harry we'd go to the pub, all have a drink and have a chat with him and he'd pay the bill.
"And now suddenly at the end of tour they issue writs. That to me was them saying they were desperate to get away from it all."
6
Part of the couple’s statement last night included how they plan to split their time between Britain and North America - with Canada expected to be their second home.
The couple say they will be "financially independent" as they "carve out a progressive new role", but will still support the Queen.
The BBC reported no other members of the Royal Family were told before the bombshell announcement - with the Queen said to be "disappointed".
And a statement from Buckingham Palace admitted discussions with the couple will be "complicated".
6
The Duke, 35, and Duchess, 38, said in their surprise statement last night: “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.
6
"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.
"This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity.
"We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.”
READ MORE SUN STORIES
The Sun has learned Harry and Meghan wish to keep Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor Estate and want their security bill paid for.
The final straw for Harry and Meghan was the official release of a new royal portrait featuring The Queen, Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince George.
Harry and Meghan were keen to make the announcement as soon as possible so they can start financial deals.
The public give their opinion on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle leaving the UK
Topics