BBC Admits Lapse in Coverage of Prince Harry’s Claims

London, United Kingdom – The BBC has admitted to a “lapse in our usual high editorial standards” following its coverage of Radio 4‘s Today programme regarding Prince Harry’s recent interview. This admission comes after the broadcaster failed to include responses from the Home Office and Buckingham Palace to claims made by the Duke of Sussex.

During an interview that aired Friday, Prince Harry described a court ruling against his security arrangements in the UK as a “good old-fashioned establishment stitch-up.” The following day, the BBC reported on this interview, which included comments by former close protection officer Richard Aitch, referencing Harry’s allegations.

The BBC clarified its oversight on its Corrections and Clarifications page, stating, “Claims were repeated that the process had been ‘an establishment stitch-up’ and we failed to properly challenge this and other allegations.” The BBC emphasized that the case ultimately falls under the responsibility of the Home Office and acknowledged that they should have included their stance in the coverage.

The Home Office responded, saying, “We are pleased that the court has found in favour of the government’s position in this case. The UK government’s protective security system is rigorous and proportionate.” They also noted that detailed information on security arrangements is not disclosed to maintain integrity and safety.

The Duke’s claims stirred reactions, with Aitch stating he was “shocked but certainly not surprised” by the court’s judgment. Aitch argued that protection should be based on threat assessment rather than legal arguments.

Additionally, Buckingham Palace issued a statement after the court’s ruling, saying, “These issues have been examined repeatedly and meticulously by the courts, with the same conclusion reached on each occasion.” The BBC reiterated that failing to include these perspectives constituted a serious oversight.

In an emotional interview, Prince Harry expressed devastation over the ruling, stating he sees no future in which he would bring his family back to the UK without adequate security. He told the BBC, “I don’t see a world in which I would be bringing my wife and children back to the UK at this point,” highlighting his ongoing estrangement from the royal family.

This incident underscores the complexities of media coverage in high-profile legal matters and the responsibilities that come with broadcasting sensitive claims.