Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie are reportedly undecided about attending their cousin Peter Phillips’ wedding next week, as a police investigation into their father, Prince Andrew, intensifies. The sisters are said to be concerned that their presence could overshadow the happy occasion.
The wedding of Peter Phillips, son of Princess Anne, to Harriet Sperling is set for June 6 in Cirencester. King Charles, Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are expected to attend. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly not been invited.
Thames Valley Police recently expanded its investigation into Prince Andrew following allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards a woman at Royal Ascot in 2002. The force confirmed it is following all reasonable lines of inquiry, including potential misconduct in public office.
Royal commentator Tom Sykes suggested the princesses are “mortified” by the latest developments and may skip the wedding to avoid drawing attention away from the couple. A source told Sykes that their attendance was “never concrete” and they would “never want to overshadow the bride and groom’s happy day.”
However, former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond believes the princesses have a strong bond with their cousin and would want to attend. She told the Mirror: “I don’t think Peter would feel that the alleged sins of Andrew and Sarah should be visited on their daughters, who have not been accused of doing anything wrong.”
Bond added that Beatrice and Eugenie are going through a tough time and that the wider family is determined to include them. The final decision remains unclear as the wedding approaches.
