The media has been rife with speculation over Prince Harry’s love life when rumours of him dating US actress, Meghan Markle, surfaced a few weeks ago. Now the newspapers have been vindicated and reprimanded in equal measure after Kensington Palace released a statement condemning the press of their intrusion into Meghan’s life while confirming her status as the Prince’s girlfriend.

Prince HarryPrince Harry has confirmed his relationship with actress, Meghan Markle

The Suits actress, 35, and the fifth in line to the throne have been dating for a "few months" but the statement said Meghan had been subject to "abuse and harassment" from the papers.

The Palace’s statement said that Prince Harry is "worried about Ms Markle’s safety and is deeply disappointed he has not been able to protect her".

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The pair are alleged to have begun dating in May after meeting in Toronto when Harry, 32, was in town to promote the Invictus Games 2017.

Meghan MarkleThe actress has been subjected to a "wave of abuse" following rumours about her relationship with the Prince

The statement said: "It is not right that a few months into a relationship with him that Ms Markle should be subject to such a storm."

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The statement added that Prince Harry felt a "line had been crossed" and that divorcee Ms Markle had been subjected to a "wave of abuse" while her family, friends, ex-boyfriend and co-workers had been bombarded by press interest.

The statement said: "This is not a game, it is her life and his."