A heated royal debate unfolded on Good Morning Britain (GMB) on Tuesday, July 7, as hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls discussed Prince Harry's visit to London. The discussion centered on Buckingham Palace's announcement that the Duke of Sussex would not stay at the palace during his trip, despite his representatives claiming he had accepted an invitation.
Security Dispute Sparks Heated Exchange
Royal commentator Afua Hagan suggested the King deliberately withdrew Harry's invitation, while former Royal Editor at The Sun Duncan Larcombe argued Harry was responsible. Ed Balls disagreed with Hagan regarding the Home Office's rejection of Harry and Meghan Markle's armed protection request.
"The security issue was worked out months ago," Ed observed, with Afua interjecting: "No, no, Ed, I have to push back on that." Ed continued: "They've known that all along. That's not the reason for the debate in the last two days." Afua firmly disagreed: "I'm going to have to push back on that one. RAVEC [Royal and VIP Executive Committee] have not done an updated risk assessment on the security that Prince Harry needs since 2019."
The presenter countered: "The Home Office said yesterday that RAVEC assessed the risk... Are you saying that RAVEC aren't doing their job? Are you saying the Home Office is incompetent, they're happy to risk the security of Prince Harry?" The guest responded: "I am saying that, and I will say that with my whole chest 10 toes down."
Viewers React with Frustration
GMB audiences were left frustrated within minutes of the programme starting, with numerous viewers complaining about Prince Harry dominating the headlines. "#GMB is obsessed with Prince Harry," one individual posted on X (formerly Twitter), with another commenting: "#GMB desperate to make a story out of nothing. Pathetic." A third remarked: "Give it a rest!" while someone else shared: "No one is interested."
"Who actually cares? The constant discussion about this is boring and getting ridiculous," a fifth audience member observed, with another sharing: "It is a slow news day? Obviously a no news day."
Background on Prince Harry's Visit
A spokesperson for Prince Harry confirmed that while they had previously indicated otherwise, they now recognised the offer to stay at the palace had been "withdrawn" - a move they deemed "disappointing." It is believed that Harry will not be joined by his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two children during his visit, following confirmation that the family would not receive taxpayer-funded police security, reports the Mirror.
Ed wrapped up by stating: "I think [Harry] should tell his media people to get a grip." Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am.
