Queen Elizabeth just issued a candid statement in response to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent announcement. While she low-key agreed to let them move to Canada, we couldn’t help but notice there’s a small loophole that could change everything.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
In the statement, Queen Elizabeth explained that she’s working on a solution to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s recent announcement.
“Today my family had very constructive discussions on the future of my grandson and his family,” it read. “My family and I are entirely supportive of Harry and Meghan’s desire to create a new life as a young family. Although we would have preferred them to remain full-time working Members of the Royal Family, we respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family. Harry and Meghan have made clear that they do not want to be reliant on public funds in their new lives.”
The statement went on to grant them international privileges, adding, “It has therefore been agreed that there will be a period of transition in which the Sussexes will spend time in Canada and the U.K.”
For the first time ever, Prince Harry and Markle will be allowed to travel to and from Canada whenever they desire. Not only will they require no formal approval to visit Canada, but they’ll also be able to stay as long as they want, which means a partial residency is totally in the cards.
Yes, but there’s a catch. While the queen granted them access to “spend time in Canada and the U.K.,” she could change her mind. In fact, there seems to be a hidden meaning behind three of the queen’s words: “period of transition.”
Although we don’t know how long it’ll last, Queen Elizabeth didn’t say what happens after they solidify the plans. While she could very much revoke their privileges, many believe this very specific phrase means the couple will choose to live in either the U.K. or Canada following the transition period—not both.
“These are complex matters for my family to resolve, and there is some more work to be done, but I have asked for final decisions to be reached in the coming days,” it continued.
The fact that Queen Elizabeth referred to them as “Harry and Meghan” (not their titles) speaks volumes.