Meghan Markle and Harry didn't consult family about quitting - Royals 'hurt and disappointed'

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry did not consult any other members of the Royal Family on their decision to step down as 'senior' royals, it has been claimed.

The BBC has claimed the Palace is "disappointed" by the couple's bombshell statement, and said that other senior members of family are "hurt" by their decision.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have tonight announced they will no longer be senior members of the Royal Family and will "work to become financially independent".

They released a statement on their Instagram page, announcing that they will split their time between the UK and North America.

The BBC's royal correspondent Jonny Dymond tweeted: "BBC Understands that no other member of the Royal Family was consulted before Harry and Meghan issued their personal statement tonight, the Palace is understood to be ‘disappointed’."

He lated added: "A palace source tells the BBC that senior members of the Royal family feel “hurt” by the announcement that Harry and Meghan are to withdraw from their current Royal roles.

"The source confirmed that no members of the royal family were consulted."

It comes as the Queen's office released a statement on the couple's announcement, warning that their decision would be "complicated".

It reads: "Discussions with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage.

"We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through."

Prince Charles and Prince William are yet to officially comment on the news.

Meghan and Harry said they had made the huge decision after "many months of reflection and internal discussions".

Posting on Instagram, they wrote: "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."

They added: "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."