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Why Harry and Wills won't be in uniform at Philip's funeral

Photo credit: Chris Jackson
Photo credit: Chris Jackson

Prince Harry, Prince William and Prince Charles will not wear military uniforms at Prince Philip's funeral on Saturday due to a decision taken by the Queen, according to reports.

Despite Harry and William both serving in the armed forces — including Harry's two tours of Afghanistan — it has been decided by the monarch that all senior royals will forgo military dress and instead wear civilian mourning suits for the service this weekend.

The break with tradition comes after royals realised that the the Duke of Sussex would be the only senior family member not in uniform for the funeral, as a result of losing his military titles — including that of Captain General of the Royal Marines, a position formerly held by Prince Philip — after stepping down as a senior working royals last year.

On previous formal occasions — including his wedding to Meghan Markle in 2018 — 36-year-old Harry has worn the frock coat uniform of his old army regiment, the Blues and Royals, but official protocol for a ceremonial royal funeral dictates that he should now wear civilian dress, although he would be allowed to wear his medals.

The no-uniform rule will be a strong contrast to the military presence on show at the funeral, to honour the Duke of Edinburgh, who served with distinction in World War 2.

Photo credit: WPA Pool
Photo credit: WPA Pool

It also provides 'the most eloquent solution' to the question of whether Prince Andrew — who stepped back from royal duties after his controversial friendship with disgraced financial and sexual offender Jeffrey Epstein came to light — should be allowed to wear his admiral's uniform on the day, according to sources at The Sun.

Further details on the funeral, including attire, are expected to be announced by Buckingham Palace later today (15th April).

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