Royal Aides ‘Walking On Eggshells’ Over Harry And Williams Feud Ahead Of Prince Philips Funeral

Royal Aides ‘Walking On Eggshells’ Over Harry And Williams Feud Ahead Of Prince Philips Funeral.

ROYAL aides say they are “walking on eggshells” around Prince William and Harry ahead of Prince Philip’s funeral on Saturday, April 17.

They claim the feud between the brothers has taken up “much thought and energy” in the run-up to the event, where it is believed they will come face to face for the first time in more than a year. Sources say it has been a “minefield” making plans, with “everyone walking on eggshells so as not to exacerbate the situation”, the Daily Mail reports.

It is now understood that the brothers will not walk side by side behind Philip’s coffin during the procession before the funeral, though it is said the formation was based on “bloodlines and age”.

However, the pair have said they want to focus on mourning their grandfather and put aside their differences. One palace insider said: “To be fair, both William and Harry have made clear that they wish to focus on mourning their grandfather and do not want anything to get in the way of that but it has made everyone doubly nervous about saying anything that could be remotely construed of being critical of the other side. It’s been a minefield.”

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “This is a funeral. We will not be drawn into those perceptions of drama. The arrangements have been agreed and they reflect Her Majesty’s wishes.”

Other sources claim William and Harry’s rift has taken up “much thought and energy” in the Lord Chamberlain’s Office, which is overseeing Saturday’s funeral at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.

William and Harry’s cousin, Princess Anne’s son Peter Phillips, 43, will walk between them during the procession, and there were hopes he could act as a mediator between them.

Funeral coverage

Today, Saturday, April 17, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, will be laid to rest following his death on April 9, aged 99. Just 30 people are attending the funeral in line with Covid-19 restrictions, with the attendees including the Queen and Philip’s four children, Princes Charles, Andrew, Edward, and Princess Anne. Other attendees include his grandsons, Princes William and Harry, with the latter flying in from California to attend – however, the brothers will not be walking shoulder-to-shoulder behind their grandfather’s coffin, Buckingham Palace has revealed.

Although well-wishers will not be able to line the streets of Windsor, they will be able to watch the ceremony live from St George’s Chapel on TV. What time is Prince Philip’s funeral? Prince Philip’s funeral takes place today, Saturday, April 17, with the service beginning at 3 pm UK time- 4 pm Spanish time.

A full version of the funeral’s order of service has been uploaded especially for EWN readers here.

Source: Daily Mail