It has been announced that Britain's Duke and Duchess of Sussex are to keep the arrangements about the birth of their first child private.

Kensington Palace made the announcement following increased speculation that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are preparing to welcome their baby in a home birth in their residence Frogmore Cottage. The baby is due this month.

"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," said Kensington Palace.

"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."