The News
Ann’s Intervention to Shield Harry From Palace Drama Amid Royal Security Dispute
Princess Anne, 71, was captured giving a disapproving look to her youngest relatives during a picturesque countryside wedding where the extended family gathered.
The Princess Royal was among the wedding guests observing as her former husband, Captain Mark Phillips, escorted his daughter, Stephanie, down the aisle.
Stephanie, aged 24 and the daughter of Captain Phillips and his second wife, shares a close bond with her half-siblings Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips, who were also present with their partners, Mike Tindall and Lindsay Wallace.
Captain Phillips' ex-wife, Sandy Pflueger, was married to him from 1997 to 2012 after his divorce from Princess Anne.
Despite their divorce in 1992, Captain Phillips continued to reside on Princess Anne's Gatcombe estate, where Stephanie also grew up on Aston Farm.
Stephanie exchanged vows with William Hosier at St. Mary the Virgin Church in Tetbury, Gloucestershire, with Prince Harry reportedly unaware of the royal household's involvement in decisions regarding his UK security arrangements.
The Duke of Sussex has initiated legal action over being denied the opportunity to cover the costs of police protection for himself and his family while in the UK.
Expressing concerns about the safety of his home country, Harry disclosed his desire to bring his children from the US for a visit but cited security risks as a hindrance.
Seeking a full judicial review of the Home Office's decision, Harry's legal team is set to present their case to Mr. Justice Swift in court.
Zara, the Queen's granddaughter, radiated elegance in a blue ensemble complemented by a striking hat and n-de shoes at the wedding.
Her two elder daughters, eight-year-old Mia and four-year-old Lena, played pivotal roles as bridesmaids, under the watchful eye of Princess Anne.
However, as the young sisters made their way to the ceremony, Anne appeared to express concern towards Lena, who seemed somber.
In another moment, the Princess Royal seemed to be having a serious conversation with Lena, who clung to Zara's hand.
Accompanied by their cousins Savannah, 11, and Isla, Peter Phillips' children were accompanied by their mother, Autumn, who separated from Princess Anne's son in 2019.
Autumn attended the event with her new partner, Donald Mulrion, sharing a passion for horses that runs in both their families.
The tension between Harry and the Queen's private secretary, Sir Edward Young, was highlighted during the legal proceedings, with Shaheed Fatima QC representing the Duke.
Fatima argued that Harry was unaware of the Royal household's involvement in the security decisions, leading to procedural unfairness.
She emphasized that Harry was not provided with a clear explanation of the committee's composition, which included members from the Royal household.
Additionally, Harry's offer to cover security expenses was allegedly not communicated to the relevant committee before the decision was made, resulting in significant prejudice.