Following Meghan Markle’s bombshell interview with Oprah, in which she claimed to be subjected to racism by the Royal Family, the Queen has broken her silence with a statement. The statement said that the “whole family is saddened” to hear that Markle and her husband Prince Harry had a “challenging few years.”

Regarding the allegation that a racist comment was made towards Markle, the Queen said it was “concerning” and would be “addressed by the family privately.” She also said that Markle, Harry, and their son Archie will “always be much loved family members.”

The statement said, ‘The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan. 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.”

Former Press Secretary to Her Majesty Charles Anson  told Sky News, “I think these developments are difficult to deal with and and she wants to do it in a fair way but in the family circle rather than by public diplomacy.”

He added, “I think the main point there has always been that the Queen has said whatever decision Prince Harry and Meghan take… Her Majesty and the Family wish them well. And on the personal basis, they will be always much loved members of the family and will no doubt join in family occasions despite these troubles, which one hopes will be alleviated over time.”

Markle’s comments to Oprah have caused wide backlash against the royal family, including thousands of calls on Twitter for the monarchy to be abolished altogether.