Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie could be kept away from the Royal Family’s public gatherings over the next few weeks to help the monarchy survive the Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor scandal, palace experts believe. With two major events scheduled in the next six weeks, decisions on whether Mountbatten-Windsor’s daughters should appear on guest lists are sure to be the focus of attention.
The outcome will provide a key sign of what strategy the institution is adopting following Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest over suspected misconduct in public office, stemming from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
An important test will be the Easter Sunday service held in April at St George’s Chapel in Windsor, which Beatrice and Eugenie both attended last year. Will they wish – or be told – to stay away from the cameras? Or will they be encouraged to show their faces, looking humble yet defiant, in a display of solidarity?
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said King Charles and senior family members should continue with their public engagements, but Beatrice and Eugenie must be omitted to protect the monarchy. “The royals have no choice but to continue their state visits and cha”, he added.
