Queen Elizabeth II on Tuesday said that the royal family will address allegations of racism made against them by Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, in their interview with Oprah Winfrey.
London: Queen Elizabeth II on Tuesday responded to explosive racism claims from her grandson Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, voicing deep concern and sympathising with their troubles with royal life.
The short statement issued on behalf of Queen Elizabeth came nearly two days after Markle revealed she had contemplated suicide, and that a member of the royal household had raised concerns about “how dark” their son Archie’s skin might be.
"The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan," she said in a statement.
"The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning. While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.
"Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much-loved family members."
The couple, who stepped back from life as senior royals and moved to the United States last year, do not plan to comment on the Queen’s statement, a spokesperson told CNN.
The Palace had been under growing pressure to respond to the interview as the couple’s allegations, particularly on racism and mental health, dominated the national discourse of Britain, while also making headlines globally.
It set off a whirl of speculation about the identity of the senior royal who asked how dark their child's skin would be before he was born.
(With inputs from agencies)