Queen strips Prince Harry and Meghan of Royal patronages

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been stripped of their royal patronages after telling The Queen they will not be returning as working members of The Royal Family.

Buckingham Palace has released a statement, confirming the couple will lose their honorary appointments following the decision.

“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 statement said.

“The honorary military appointments and Royal patronages held by The Duke and Duchess will therefore be returned to Her Majesty.”

It’s understood their roles will now be redistributed among other working members of The Royal Family.

“While all are saddened by their decision, The Duke and Duchess remain much-loved members of the family,” the Palace said.

The decision comes 11 months after The Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Buckingham Palace agreed to a 12-month review into the couple’s decision to step away as working members of The Royal Family.

A spokesperson for Harry and Meghan has since released the following statement in response to the news.

“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,” the statement said.

“We can all live a life of service. Service is universal.”