Former Minister Nadine Dorries Criticises Royal Husband's Church Conduct
Former culture minister Nadine Dorries has publicly accused Princess Beatrice's husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, of behaving inappropriately during a church service, describing his actions as reminiscent of a disrespectful teenager. The incident occurred at a service organised by a mutual friend, where Dorries was seated in front of the royal couple and Princess Eugenie with her husband.
Dorries Details the Confrontation
In an interview with The Mail, Dorries recounted the event, stating that Edoardo was laughing loudly and generally disrupting the solemn atmosphere. At one point, I turned round and gave him the evil eye that only a woman my age - and a mother - can bestow, she explained. Dorries noted that he quickly corrected his behaviour after her intervention, acknowledging the prompt response.
Marriage Rumours Dismissed by Friends
This criticism comes amid sensational weekend reports suggesting tensions in Beatrice and Edoardo's marriage, partly due to their recent time apart as Edoardo has been working extensively in the United States. However, a close friend of the couple has strongly refuted these claims, telling Hello! Magazine: The only thing Bea and Edo are navigating are their busy jobs and looking after their children! The friend emphasised that their relationship remains solid, attributing any distance to professional commitments rather than marital strife.
Broader Royal Context and Public Scrutiny
The sisters Beatrice and Eugenie have maintained a relatively low profile recently, particularly following their father Prince Andrew's arrest in February and the stripping of his royal titles. Their absence from events like the Cheltenham races and anticipated non-participation in traditional royal gatherings such as Ascot in June has sparked speculation. Royal author Phil Dampier suggested the sisters are too tarnished by family connections to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, affecting their public roles.
Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine, commented on their situation, noting that inviting them to royal events could invite uncomfortable public commentary. People will ask: 'Are you trying to cash in on contacts that have been given to you by Andrew or Sarah?' she explained, highlighting the ongoing challenges the sisters face within the royal family amidst ongoing scandals.
