Princess Diana's brother has alleged that King Charles became extremely angry during a telephone conversation in the days following the princess's death, according to claims made in a forthcoming book.
Earl Spencer disclosed these allegations in an exclusive interview, stating that the then-Prince of Wales responded with fury when discussing whether Princes William and Harry should participate in their mother's funeral procession. Spencer claims Charles used the phrase "we'll forget her soon enough" during their heated exchange.
The royal household moved swiftly to address the allegations. In a statement from Buckingham Palace, officials suggested that the King's recollection of events may have been affected by the emotional circumstances surrounding his sister's death. The Palace noted that
the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason, affect judgement and colour memory in ways others do not recognise, even many years after such a loss.
Context within the royal family tensions
These revelations emerge amid ongoing tensions within the royal family. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are preparing to relocate to Britain, a development that has raised questions about the possibility of reconciliation between the brothers. According to earlier reporting, Prince William and Prince Harry face an uncertain path to reconciliation as the Sussex family prepares to relocate, with William showing little inclination to forgive despite the increased proximity.
The planned return has also prompted discussions about security arrangements. King Charles is reportedly pleased about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's planned return to the UK, though security costs and royal tensions dominate discussions as the couple prepares to relocate without a taxpayer-funded protection deal.
What does the Palace's response suggest?
The Palace's statement appears designed to cast doubt on Spencer's account by emphasizing how grief can distort memory and perception over time. Rather than directly denying the allegations, the response suggests that the emotional weight of losing a sibling may have influenced how events were remembered or interpreted by those involved.
