The decision by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to step down as working royals came as no surprise. It followed months of rumours and claims of family feuds behind the scenes - with many royal experts speculating they may leave the UK permanently.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announced in January 2020 they would no longer perform royal duties, and would become financially independent instead, making it clear they weren't looking to return. It is thought that no other royal - including the Queen or Prince William - were consulted before the statement was released on Instagram.
At the time, the Queen released a statement stressing that the couple would remain "a valued part of my family”, and at a historic crisis summit, attended by the Queen, Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry, a transition period of 12 months was agreed.
