'Go... if you must': UK newspapers react as Queen backs Harry and Meghan's exit
After days of speculation as to how she might react, Queen Elizabeth II has voiced her support for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry as they step back as 'senior' royals.
On Monday UK time, Her Majesty met with Prince Charles, Prince William and Harry — with Meghan reportedly dialling in from Canada — in Sandringham to discuss the Sussexes' future.
The Queen is reluctant to see Harry and Meghan step back, but ultimately supports them. Getty
Afterwards, the monarch released an uncharacteristically personal statement saying the family was "entirely supportive" of their wishes 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," the message added.
The Queen's statement on Harry and Meghan. Buckingham Palace
Unsurprisingly, the Queen's response is dominating the news cycle, with major UK newspapers dedicating their front pages to the story.
Many have honed in on the emotional thrust of the situation: a doting grandmother putting aside her own desires (and sense of duty) in favour of her grandson's happiness.
The Daily Mail's coverline reads: "Go... if you must."
Metro borrows the immortal words of Fleetwood Mac to tap into a similar sentiment, declaring: "You can go your own way."
The Daily Mirror has run with "Queen to Harry: I want you to stay... but you're free to go."
The Daily Telegraph calls the Queen's statement her "reluctant farewell".
The Daily Express praises the "gracious" Queen and her decision to "grant Harry his wish".
The Guardian has offered a less emotive take, opting simply for: "Harry and Meghan get Queen's backing."
The Queen's statement hasn't entirely stemmed the flow of aftershocks from the Sussexes' announcement last Wednesday.
In her statement, Her Majesty shared her hope that a final decision regarding the details of Harry and Meghan's exit be reached in the coming days.
"These are complex matters for my family to resolve, and there is some more work to be done," she added.
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