Journalist Russell Myers has criticised the Duke and Duchess of Sussex over their recent trip to Nottingham, calling it a "lazy attempt at nostalgia" that clashes with their calls for taxpayer-funded protection.
Appearing on The Royals Uncensored on Thursday (16 October), Myers said the couple's highly publicised outing was at odds with their security demands. "Just on Nottingham, I think it's a lazy attempt at nostalgia because what else is there? Trying to get people back to the scene where you had a great reception after the engagement," he said.
Criticism of the Sussexes' public appearance
Myers noted that the trip, which marked their first non-royal engagement since returning to the UK, was a smaller affair than what they had been used to. "It wasn't the crowds and the atmosphere [that they got] back in 2017," he said, adding that "they are kind of in no man's land at the moment."
In a blow to the Sussexes' pleas for taxpayer-funded security, Myers pointed out that making such a public outing contradicted their demands. He explained that on royal engagements, operational notes are usually embargoed to prevent large crowds from gathering.
Security concerns and public safety
"Well, there was no such action for Harry and Meghan. Anyone could have reported this, you know: 'they're going to be here at this time and seeing these people'," Myers said. "That is totally at odds with not being able to go out your own front door because you fear for your own safety - what is it? Talk about half in, half out."
Asked about the security in place at the event, Myers clarified that the couple's own security detail was close by, and although there was no police presence, some community support officers were in attendance.
Details of the Nottingham visit
Harry and Meghan began their trip with a visit to the city's Community Recording Studio, followed by a tour of Himmah Hub, a food-poverty community action group. Their day ended at Epic Partners in Sneinton, a charity supporting children and young people in St Ann's and Sneinton.
Receiving a warm welcome from locals, the Sussexes chatted with many of them, who gifted them flowers and presents. "It's good to be back," Meghan told crowds in Nottingham.
