Monarchists react to Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from royal duties

The Monarchist League of Canada is waiting to see what the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will do next after a sudden announcement they would be stepping back from duties as senior members of the royal family.

Tom Richards is the prairie spokesperson for the non-profit organization, which exists to promote understanding and loyalty to the monarchy.

He said while the British media have reported the abrupt announcement by Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, may have caught Buckingham Palace off guard, he believes the royal family will patch things over.

“More communication is good but at the same time, everybody’s interest is in working out something amicable. Occasionally families have tense moments but families come together in the end,” Richards said Thursday from Saskatoon.

As the couple distances itself from the royal family, it’s not clear what its formal role will be going forward. Richards pointed out the decision by Prince Harry and Meghan is not unprecedented.

“The Queen’s uncle, King Edward, he formally stepped back from roles while still maintaining a kind of title. Other members of the royal family have stepped back from formal roles … but carry on a kind of quasi-private life while occasionally playing a formal role. Prince Andrew’s daughters are an example of that,” Richards said.

There has been speculation that Harry and Meghan could end up living in Canada, something Richards could see happening.

“In terms of just vacations, I know the royal family has throughout the centuries actually visited Canada in a private capacity to visit, to relax, to live a more private life,” he said.

“I would not be surprised if (Harry and Meghan) choose to follow that and try to establish something in Canada.”