Prince Andrew Reportedly Requests To Wear Military Uniform At Prince Philip's Funeral, He 'Will Do What Is Appropriate To The Circumstances,' Insider Says
Prince Andrew is reportedly making a big fuss over what he wants to wear to Prince Philip's funeral on Saturday, April 17. According to the Daily Mail, the royal, who stepped back from his duties in 2019 after his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein was exposed, requested to wear an admiral uniform to the event, even though he withdrew from the Royal Naval position.
The 61-year-old is waiting for Queen Elizabeth and other senior officials to give him an answer by Thursday, April 15. However, it seems as though he doesn't want to cause a scene.
“People have opinions and there are ongoing discussions about the right course of action,” a source told the outlet. “The Duke of York is very keenly aware of Saturday’s funeral being a moment for the Duke of Edinburgh, [Her Majesty] and the nation. He has neither wish nor intention to distract from that.”
“The Duke of York will do what is appropriate to the circumstances — he remains stepped back from royal duties,” the source said. “Speculation on what he may or may not wear is just that, speculation, and no matters of this nature have yet been decided upon.”
If Andrew does not receive permission to wear his military uniform, then he will most likely be allowed to wear a morning suit with medals, the outlet reported.
Andrew's siblings, Prince Edward, Princess Anne and Prince Charles, will all be wearing military clothing to the event.
Meanwhile, Prince William and Prince Harry will be sporting the same suits to avoid any conflict, a royal expert shared.
"This is obviously very sensitive," Richard Fitzwilliams said, noting that Harry stepped back from the royal family in 2020. "Anything that distinguished the brothers in that way, which would be so obvious for anyone watching, would probably be avoided. The whole thing we do not want is any form of rift."
He continued, "I'd suggest it would be handled in such a way as it goes totally smoothly without a hitch, and there are no issues. My opinion is that they would do everything possible to make sure that the spotlight on this very, very important day is where it should be, and that's on truly remarkable achievements of someone with superhuman energy who did so much for Queen and country."
