Prince Harry Sidesteps Questions on Uncle's Book During UK Visit

Prince Harry has deflected inquiries regarding his uncle Earl Spencer's new book, which contains controversial claims about King Charles and Princess Diana. The Duke of Sussex made his first public appearance in the UK at the Invictus Spirit Awards in Greenwich.

When questioned by a reporter on the red carpet about Earl Spencer's book, Prince Harry appeared serious and did not respond, continuing to walk with two veterans. Sources close to the Duke indicate he is aware of the book but has not read it. The memoir's release coincides with Harry and Meghan's return to the UK, which has reportedly included minor disruptions, such as briefly withdrawing their children from school due to security concerns related to traffic.

Despite the media attention surrounding his uncle's book, Harry described his time back on British soil as "eventful" but positive. "It's great. It's wonderful to be back on British soil and really nice to see so many old faces and friends," he said in an interview. He added, "It's been eventful, but we're getting stuck into the work. The kids are in school. We're happy."

Earl Spencer's book includes claims that King Charles sounded "elated – like a lottery winner" shortly after Diana's death and suggested that Princess Diana would be quickly forgotten. He also alleges that Diana told him her royal husband was in love with his valet.

In response to the book's claims, royal aides suggested that grief may have "clouded Earl Spencer's reason, judgment and memory." Friends of the King have defended him, insisting he would not have made such remarks.

The memoir also details other aspects of Diana's life, including her unhappiness during her marriage to Charles and her engagement to Camilla. Earl Spencer writes that on the day of the wedding, Charles told Diana he was happy to marry her but not in love with her. The book also claims that the late Queen Elizabeth II offered to restore Diana's HRH title on the day of her funeral, an offer Earl Spencer ultimately declined.

At the Invictus Spirit Awards, Prince Harry, dressed in black tie and wearing military medals, celebrated the resilience and commitment of individuals within the Invictus community. He delivered a speech to veterans, stating, "I want to say this as one soldier to another: your service matters. What you gave in uniform matters."

Meanwhile, Buckingham Palace issued a rare statement acknowledging the book, noting that "the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason, affect judgment and colour memory." A former communications secretary for King Charles stated that the King had instructed staff to respect Diana's memory and not undermine it.

The controversy surrounding Earl Spencer's book has reportedly caused anger within the royal family, particularly for Prince William.