The Duke and Duchess of Sussex to step back as senior members of the royal family

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have confirmed they want to step back as senior members of the royal family.

Harry and Meghan say they plan to split their time between the UK and North America.

In a statement which they released on their official instagram account the couple said: "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. 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.” - The Duke and Duchess of Sussex"

It's understood the Queen wasn't warned about the couple's statement before they released it.

Former royal press spokesman Dickie Arbiter isn't surprised saying they seem to have a habit of doing things without anybody knowing what's happening.