10 Jan 2020

Royal family "blindsided" by Harry and Meghan announcement

From Summer Report, 8:29 am on 10 January 2020

A blow to the monarchy and a blow to the queen - the Duke and Duchess of Sussex' decision to step back as senior royals has apparently "blindsided" the Royal Family.

Prince Harry and Meghan made the announcement yesterday via Instagram. The couple said they would work to become financially independent, but at the same time launch a new charitable entity.

It's raised many questions about what "stepping back" would actually mean, how it would be funded and what message the move is sending.

The BBC's Royal correspondent, Jonny Dymond, told Logan Church for many, this move has come as a complete surprise.