Meghan, 37, and Harry, 34, have been criticised on social media over their decision to “celebrate privately” before sharing the news with the world. The royal baby, who will be seventh in line to the throne, is due in the next few weeks. In a statement Kensington Palace said: “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are very grateful for the goodwill they have received from people throughout the United Kingdom and around the world as they prepare to welcome their baby.

“Their Royal Highnesses have taken a personal decision to keep the plans around the arrival of their baby private.

“The Duke and Duchess look forward to sharing the exciting news with everyone once they have had an opportunity to celebrate privately as a new family.”

The statement prompted a furious reaction on social media.

One tweeted: “Does that mean the taxpayer won’t be paying for anything?”

Another wrote: “They want royal privileges, taxpayers to fork out millions for their cottage renovation, security, pay for them and the baby for life but don’t want to share details until they are ready. Want privacy, sod off and fund yourselves.”

A third added: “Shame they didn’t do the same with the wedding… you can’t live the privilege life that WE pay for and cut us out when you choose… oh Harry!! What have you done.”

One more wrote on Facebook: “So she wants high profile royal wedding, the luxuries that go with being married to a member of royal family but wants to pick and choose what she wants to do…. Mmmm ok.”

But others rushed to defend Meghan and Harry’s decision.

One tweeted: “Good for them. Wishing the duchess well.”

Another wrote: “Excellent news. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are not answerable to anyone and are most definitely entitled to their privacy regarding the birth of their baby. The Sussexes are allowed to continue to keep their private lives out of the media spotlight.”

And ITV royal editor Chris Ship said: “Perhaps the biggest question is this: why should we expect any woman, royal or otherwise, to stand in front of a bank of cameras just hours – or even days – after she has given birth?

“You can see how Meghan looked at that prospect and thought, ‘thanks but no thanks’…”

It comes as the royal couple are settling in to their new Windsor home Frogmore Cottage.

Millions of pounds have been spent renovating the property, including a nursery for their tot.

Speculation is growing that Meghan could follow in the Queen’s footsteps by having a home birth.

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