In his first Remembrance Sunday ceremony as king, Charles III laid a wreath in memory of the country's and the Commonwealth's war dead, while the UK Prime Minister&nbsp;Rishi Sunak praised Ukraine's defenders. In the past, the 73-year-old king filled in for his unwell mother Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in September at the age of 96.

From the foreign ministry's balcony, which overlooked the Cenotaph in the heart of London, she had been seeing the yearly service ever since 2017.

The late Queen Elizabeth II was compelled to skip the event last year due to a back ailment, which came only a few weeks after an unexpected overnight hospital admission. Hence, Charles had put a wreath on her behalf.&nbsp;

In a ceremonial field marshal uniform, he lay his first wreath at the war monument as the current king and commander-in-chief of the British military.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pm-liz-trusss-mini-budget-cost-the-uk-exchequer-35-billion-report-533680">Former PM Liz Truss's mini-budget cost the UK exchequer $35 billion: Report</a>

After laying the ring of red plastic poppies—national Britain's memorial—Charles remained still.

WATCH |&nbsp;US, Allies push IAEA board over Iran; West wants Iran to explain Uranium traces

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A ribbon in the king's favourite horseracing colours of crimson, purple, and gold was tied around the wreath, which was set atop black foliage.

The Big Ben rang out 11 times, and two minutes of quiet were held thereafter to commemorate the restoration of the Great Clock in the neighbouring Houses of Parliament.

The quiet was broken by cannon fire, and the Last Post was sounded in front of everyone by buglers.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In his first Remembrance Sunday ceremony as king, Charles III laid a wreath in memory of the country's and the Commonwealth's war dead, while the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised Ukraine's defenders.

In his first Remembrance Sunday ceremony as king, Charles III laid a wreath in memory of the country's and the Commonwealth's war dead, while the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised Ukraine's defenders. In the past, the 73-year-old king filled in for his unwell mother Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in September at the age of 96. From the foreign ministry's balcony, which overlooked the Cenotaph in the heart of London, she had been seeing the yearly service ever since 2017. The late Queen Elizabeth II was compelled to skip the event last year due to a back ailment, which came only a few weeks after an unexpected overnight hospital admission. Hence, Charles had put a wreath on her behalf. In a ceremonial field marshal uniform, he lay his first wreath at the war monument as the current king and commander-in-chief of the British military. Also read | Former PM Liz Truss's mini-budget cost the UK exchequer $35 billion: Report After laying the ring of red plastic poppies—national Britain's memorial—Charles remained still. WATCH | US, Allies push IAEA board over Iran; West wants Iran to explain Uranium traces A ribbon in the king's favourite horseracing colours of crimson, purple, and gold was tied around the wreath, which was set atop black foliage. The Big Ben rang out 11 times, and two minutes of quiet were held thereafter to commemorate the restoration of the Great Clock in the neighbouring Houses of Parliament. The quiet was broken by cannon fire, and the Last Post was sounded in front of everyone by buglers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Britain's King Charles III leads first Remembrance Sunday as monarch

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle have been advocates of&nbsp;mental health for years now. Recently, Harry spoke out about how 'therapy'&nbsp;has changed his life for the good.&nbsp;

The Duke of Sussex recently appeared at a mental-health summit as an ambassador for mental health firm BetterUp, where he opened up about the "power of therapy and coaching''.

He also shockingly revealed how he was never introduced to the word therapy&nbsp;during his life as a royal in London.&nbsp;Harry and Alexi Robichaux were joined by podcaster Reid Hoffman on stage.&nbsp;

However, no video has been made public from the conference, but several guests have tweeted quotes about Harry.&nbsp;

As per the Daily Beast, Doron Weber, VP of the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, shared Harry's quote on his royal life. Weber tweeted, "Prince Harry says, growing up in the royal family &amp; then spending 10 years in the military, he never heard the words ‘therapy’ or ‘coaching.’ Then the blinkers came off and his life changed."&nbsp;

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Prince Harry says growing up in the royal family &amp; then spending 10 years in the military, he never heard the words “therapy” or “coaching. Then the blinkers came off and his life changed. w ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/Arobichaux?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arobichaux</a>⁩ of <a href="https://twitter.com/BetterUp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BetterUp</a>⁩ &amp; ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/reidhoffman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@reidhoffman</a>⁩ ⁦⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/mastersofscale?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastersofscale</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/OD4veku8yE">pic.twitter.com/OD4veku8yE</a>
— Doron Weber (@DoronWeber) <a href="https://twitter.com/DoronWeber/status/1582912197377679361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During his warm discussion with the firm’s founder, Alexi Robichaux, the father-of-two revealed how therapy ''opened [his] eyes'' and changed his perspective towards life, reported Daily Mail.&nbsp;

"I was moving through life thinking there was only one way to live and therapy burst that bubble. Then, when I found my way to coaching, the next bubble burst, and all of a sudden I realised that now I have perspective and a great understanding of my value," revealed Prince Harry.&nbsp;

''I regained confidence that I never thought I had.''

In his docuseries with Oprah Winfrey, Harry revealed that his wife Meghan was the person who pushed him to get therapy and seek professional help.&nbsp;

''I saw GPs. I saw doctors. I saw therapists. I saw alternative therapists. I saw all sorts of people, but it was meeting and being with Meghan," he explained in his interview with Oprah.&nbsp; 
 
''I knew that if I didn't do the therapy and fix myself that I was going to lose this woman who I could see spending the rest of my life with,'' he further added.

Harry's surprise appearance came a day after Meghan's Variety interview, in which she opened up about her bonding with the late Queen Elizabeth. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-remembers-queen-elizabeth-calls-her-shining-example-of-female-leadership-527040">Read the full story here.</a>

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle have been advocates of mental health for years now. Recently, Harry spoke out about how 'therapy' has changed his life for the good.

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle have been advocates of mental health for years now. Recently, Harry spoke out about how 'therapy' has changed his life for the good. The Duke of Sussex recently appeared at a mental-health summit as an ambassador for mental health firm BetterUp, where he opened up about the "power of therapy and coaching''. He also shockingly revealed how he was never introduced to the word therapy during his life as a royal in London. Harry and Alexi Robichaux were joined by podcaster Reid Hoffman on stage. However, no video has been made public from the conference, but several guests have tweeted quotes about Harry. As per the Daily Beast, Doron Weber, VP of the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, shared Harry's quote on his royal life. Weber tweeted, "Prince Harry says, growing up in the royal family & then spending 10 years in the military, he never heard the words ‘therapy’ or ‘coaching.’ Then the blinkers came off and his life changed." Prince Harry says growing up in the royal family & then spending 10 years in the military, he never heard the words “therapy” or “coaching. Then the blinkers came off and his life changed. w ⁦@Arobichaux⁩ of @BetterUp⁩ & ⁦@reidhoffman⁩ ⁦⁦@mastersofscale⁩ pic.twitter.com/OD4veku8yE — Doron Weber (@DoronWeber) October 20, 2022 × During his warm discussion with the firm’s founder, Alexi Robichaux, the father-of-two revealed how therapy ''opened [his] eyes'' and changed his perspective towards life, reported Daily Mail. "I was moving through life thinking there was only one way to live and therapy burst that bubble. Then, when I found my way to coaching, the next bubble burst, and all of a sudden I realised that now I have perspective and a great understanding of my value," revealed Prince Harry. ''I regained confidence that I never thought I had.'' In his docuseries with Oprah Winfrey, Harry revealed that his wife Meghan was the person who pushed him to get therapy and seek professional help. ''I saw GPs. I saw doctors. I saw therapists. I saw alternative therapists. I saw all sorts of people, but it was meeting and being with Meghan," he explained in his interview with Oprah. ''I knew that if I didn't do the therapy and fix myself that I was going to lose this woman who I could see spending the rest of my life with,'' he further added. Harry's surprise appearance came a day after Meghan's Variety interview, in which she opened up about her bonding with the late Queen Elizabeth. Read the full story here.

Prince Harry reveals he had never heard of the word 'therapy' in the royal family

Being in the public eye can have its side-effects. And when you belong to the Royal family, your every move is analysed, which may land you at the centre of untrue rumours and conspiracy theories. From almost believable to utterly absurd, here are a few conspiracy theories about the Royal family members, enough to rattle you.

The Royal family conspiracy theories that will amaze you

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION | UN urges Taliban to open high school for girls; Royal family conspiracy theories

The death of Queen Elizabeth II has sparked a national debate in South Africa over the possession&nbsp;of the largest known clear-cut diamond, the Great Star of Africa.

Calls are now being made to the Royal Family to return the African nation’s precious diamond—also known as Cullinan l—which is currently mounted on a royal sceptre belonging to the Queen.

Since the death of the Queen, calls have intensified in the African nations, former colonies of the British Empire, seeking reparations and return their precious jewels that were looted during the British Empire’s rule, reports CNN.

Cullinan l, which was cut from a larger diamond, was mined in South Africa in 1905. The diamond in its natural form weighed around 3,106 carats, of which 500 carats were cut to make the Great Star of Africa diamond.

The diamond was presented to King Edward VII—the British monarch at the time—in 1907, two years after it was unearthed in a private mine in South Africa’s old Transvaal province, according to the Royal Collection Trust, which oversees the royal collection of the British royal family.

"The Cullinan Diamond must be returned to South Africa with immediate effect," activist Thanduxolo Sabelo&nbsp;told the Sunday Times newspaper.

"The minerals of our country and other countries continue to benefit Britain at the expense of our people,” he added.

African Transformation Movement (ATM) MP Vuyo Zungula went a step further seeking a revamp of the constitution that de-links British Magna Carta and that South Africa should leave the Commonwealth.

“SA should now leave the Commonwealth, demand reparations for all the harm done by Britain, draft a new constitution based on the will of the people of SA not the British Magna Carta, and demand the return of all the gold, diamonds stolen by Britain,” the lawmaker was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

Meanwhile, over 6,000 people have signed a petition calling for the Great Star of Africa to be returned and put in a South African museum, according to local media.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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The death of Queen Elizabeth II has sparked a national debate in South Africa over the possession of the largest known clear-cut diamond, the Great Star of Africa.

The death of Queen Elizabeth II has sparked a national debate in South Africa over the possession of the largest known clear-cut diamond, the Great Star of Africa. Calls are now being made to the Royal Family to return the African nation’s precious diamond—also known as Cullinan l—which is currently mounted on a royal sceptre belonging to the Queen. Since the death of the Queen, calls have intensified in the African nations, former colonies of the British Empire, seeking reparations and return their precious jewels that were looted during the British Empire’s rule, reports CNN. Cullinan l, which was cut from a larger diamond, was mined in South Africa in 1905. The diamond in its natural form weighed around 3,106 carats, of which 500 carats were cut to make the Great Star of Africa diamond. The diamond was presented to King Edward VII—the British monarch at the time—in 1907, two years after it was unearthed in a private mine in South Africa’s old Transvaal province, according to the Royal Collection Trust, which oversees the royal collection of the British royal family. "The Cullinan Diamond must be returned to South Africa with immediate effect," activist Thanduxolo Sabelo told the Sunday Times newspaper. "The minerals of our country and other countries continue to benefit Britain at the expense of our people,” he added. African Transformation Movement (ATM) MP Vuyo Zungula went a step further seeking a revamp of the constitution that de-links British Magna Carta and that South Africa should leave the Commonwealth. “SA should now leave the Commonwealth, demand reparations for all the harm done by Britain, draft a new constitution based on the will of the people of SA not the British Magna Carta, and demand the return of all the gold, diamonds stolen by Britain,” the lawmaker was quoted as saying by the newspaper. Meanwhile, over 6,000 people have signed a petition calling for the Great Star of Africa to be returned and put in a South African museum, according to local media. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Calls grow in South Africa seeking return of 500-carat diamond from UK

Right after the news of the demise of Queen Elizabeth II went public, members of the British royal family ditched their colourful attires for a more sombre dress code to express grief and sadnesses through their sartorial picks. Donning black from head to toe, the royals attended the funeral of the late monarch on September 19 and paid their last tributes.

The tradition of wearing only black during the mourning period dates back to medieval times when women were expected to only wear black caps and veils when their husbands died. Today, in the 21st century, the tradition still exists and it is a major part of the royal family's mourning dress codes.

If we look back in the history of the British royal family, Queen Victoria is perhaps the most prominent royal figure when it comes to wearing black as the mourning dress.&nbsp;

After the death of Prince Albert in 1861, Queen Victoria wore black every single day for over 40 years, until her own death. Her jewellery was also specially designed and commissioned to remind everyone of her lost family members. And according to the curator at Historic Royal Palaces, Matthew Storey, the mourning dress has been a major part of European royal culture for centuries, but it reached its peak in the 19th century with the influence of Queen Victoria, who set a standard for the rest of society to follow".

"When her beloved husband died in 1861 she abandoned the colourful clothes of her married life and, with the rest of the royal court, adopted black clothing as an outward sign of grief. Her subjects duly followed suit, causing a rush on suppliers of mourning fabric up and down the country," Storey told The Telegraph.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-heartbroken-after-queens-initials-were-stripped-from-his-uniform-report-517432" hreflang="en">Prince Harry 'heartbroken' after Queen’s initials were stripped from his uniform: Report</a>

Another famous instance regarding the royals and the black mourning dress code takes us back to King George VI's death. At the time of her father's demise, the then&nbsp;Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip were in Kenya and they quickly rushed back to Britain upon hearing the news of the monarch's demise. However, when Elizabeth II reached&nbsp;the UK, she didn't have a black dress in her luggage. So, she decided to wait in the jet till one of her&nbsp;staff got her&nbsp;a modest black dress. That's how strictly the royals follow their dress codes.&nbsp;Since then, every royal family member is mandated to pack at least one black outfit in their luggage every time they fly out of the country.

Right after the news of the demise of Queen Elizabeth II went public, members of the British royal family ditched their colourful attires for a more sombre dress code to express grief and sadnesses through their sartorial picks.

Right after the news of the demise of Queen Elizabeth II went public, members of the British royal family ditched their colourful attires for a more sombre dress code to express grief and sadnesses through their sartorial picks. Donning black from head to toe, the royals attended the funeral of the late monarch on September 19 and paid their last tributes. The tradition of wearing only black during the mourning period dates back to medieval times when women were expected to only wear black caps and veils when their husbands died. Today, in the 21st century, the tradition still exists and it is a major part of the royal family's mourning dress codes. If we look back in the history of the British royal family, Queen Victoria is perhaps the most prominent royal figure when it comes to wearing black as the mourning dress. After the death of Prince Albert in 1861, Queen Victoria wore black every single day for over 40 years, until her own death. Her jewellery was also specially designed and commissioned to remind everyone of her lost family members. And according to the curator at Historic Royal Palaces, Matthew Storey, the mourning dress has been a major part of European royal culture for centuries, but it reached its peak in the 19th century with the influence of Queen Victoria, who set a standard for the rest of society to follow". "When her beloved husband died in 1861 she abandoned the colourful clothes of her married life and, with the rest of the royal court, adopted black clothing as an outward sign of grief. Her subjects duly followed suit, causing a rush on suppliers of mourning fabric up and down the country," Storey told The Telegraph. Also read: Prince Harry 'heartbroken' after Queen’s initials were stripped from his uniform: Report Another famous instance regarding the royals and the black mourning dress code takes us back to King George VI's death. At the time of her father's demise, the then Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip were in Kenya and they quickly rushed back to Britain upon hearing the news of the monarch's demise. However, when Elizabeth II reached the UK, she didn't have a black dress in her luggage. So, she decided to wait in the jet till one of her staff got her a modest black dress. That's how strictly the royals follow their dress codes. Since then, every royal family member is mandated to pack at least one black outfit in their luggage every time they fly out of the country.

A look back at the intriguing history of royal family mourning dress codes

Queen Elizabeth's coffin will be flown to London on Tuesday and once it reaches there it will be taken to Buckinhgham Palace. It will be taken on a gun carriage as a part of a grand military procession to Westminster Hall. The coffin will lay at the Parliament's compound for four days straight to allow the British public to pay their tributes.

Queen Elizabeth's coffin to be flown to London, will be taken to Buckingham Palace

Thousands of people gathered in Edinburgh to bid the final goodbye to Queen Elizabeth. King Charles led the procession to an Edinburgh cathedral for the prayer service. Queen Elizabeth's children also walked behind her coffin in the royal procession.

Bidding final goodbye: King Charles leads Queen Elizabeth's procession to Edinburgh cathedral

UK is now preparing to bid goodbye to Britain's longest-reigning monarch Queen Elizabeth. The 6-hour funeral journey will be held on September 19 to Edinburgh. The day of the funeral will be declared as a public holiday.

UK prepares to bid goodbye to Queen; coffin leaves Balmoral Castle | Latest News | WION

Being part of the Royal family has its advantages but it is also not a cake walk always. They have to adhere to certain dress code when they are in the public eye or travelling. We tell you everything you need to know about how the Royal family is expected to be.

Dress code that the Royal family has to follow

More than half of Britishers dislike or do not feel sympathetic towards Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, according to a survey released a day after Meghan made headlines by making comments about the royal family during an interview with a US magazine.

The survey was released on Tuesday (August 30), based on global opinion and data from YouGov.

Roughly 2,627 Britishers took part in the survey, amongst which 43 per cent voted for having no compassion and sympathy for the couple, while another 22 per cent said they had not much for them. Another 22 per cent said they had a decent amount of sympathy for the couple, while the remaining 13 per cent of individuals claimed to be neutral.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-will-end-bad-donald-trumps-strange-prophecy-for-prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-marriage-473647">Also read |&nbsp;'It will end bad': Donald Trump's strange prophecy for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's marriage</a>

The couple's announcement of their trip to the UK and Germany in the month of September, together with Markle’s solo podcast Archetypes, and her interview with the Cut, contributed to the survey’s data, Newsweek reported.

The couple’s popularity fell precipitously when they announced that they would stop serving as working royals and will move to the United States. The situation changed even further when the couple had a direct interview with Oprah Winfrey in May 2021, where she revealed the family’s intolerable intrusions and racist views in the British media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-democracy-and-freedom-under-assault-prince-harry-tells-un-498823">Also read |&nbsp;World democracy and freedom under assault, Prince Harry tells UN</a>

The couple’s popularity plummeted in May before their trip to the UK for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, where Markle made her first public appearance in the country ever since she left the royal family.

However, the most well-liked person in the UK is still Queen Elizabeth II.

(With inputs from agencies)

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More than half of Britishers dislike or do not feel sympathetic towards Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, according to a survey released a day after Meghan made headlines by making comments about the royal family during an interview with a US magazine.

More than half of Britishers dislike or do not feel sympathetic towards Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, according to a survey released a day after Meghan made headlines by making comments about the royal family during an interview with a US magazine. The survey was released on Tuesday (August 30), based on global opinion and data from YouGov. Roughly 2,627 Britishers took part in the survey, amongst which 43 per cent voted for having no compassion and sympathy for the couple, while another 22 per cent said they had not much for them. Another 22 per cent said they had a decent amount of sympathy for the couple, while the remaining 13 per cent of individuals claimed to be neutral. Also read | 'It will end bad': Donald Trump's strange prophecy for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's marriage The couple's announcement of their trip to the UK and Germany in the month of September, together with Markle’s solo podcast Archetypes, and her interview with the Cut, contributed to the survey’s data, Newsweek reported. The couple’s popularity fell precipitously when they announced that they would stop serving as working royals and will move to the United States. The situation changed even further when the couple had a direct interview with Oprah Winfrey in May 2021, where she revealed the family’s intolerable intrusions and racist views in the British media. Also read | World democracy and freedom under assault, Prince Harry tells UN The couple’s popularity plummeted in May before their trip to the UK for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, where Markle made her first public appearance in the country ever since she left the royal family. However, the most well-liked person in the UK is still Queen Elizabeth II. (With inputs from agencies)

Nearly 65% of Britons don’t feel any sympathy or compassion for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

California-based Prince Harry has been allowed by the High Court to move forward with a suit against the Home Office for denying him Metropolitan Police bodyguards during trips to the United Kingdom from North America.&nbsp;

Harry is challenging a February 2020 decision of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures, also called Ravec that made it clear to the Duke that he would not be given the same degree of personal protection when visiting the country.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Prince Harry wanted to pay the specialist Metropolitan Police officers for the protection of his family and himself. However, the Home Office lawyer, in a previous hearing, argued that the Police officers cannot be bought.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-uks-prince-harry-seeks-right-to-pay-for-uk-police-protection-445245">UK's Prince Harry seeks right to pay for UK police protection</a>

A full high court hearing to follow

However, on Friday, the High Court judge noted, “The application for permission to apply for judicial review is allowed in part and refused in part.”&nbsp;

The court decided to allow Harry and his counsel to argue on four out of the five grounds; meaning, there will be a proper and full high court hearing. The one ground that Harry has been rejected on is his counsel's insistence to identify the members of the&nbsp;Ravec, which would have certainly included a Royal member that made the final call on Harry's security.&nbsp;

“In the course of submissions, it became apparent that, while the claimant may have had disagreements with persons who were Ravec committee members, there was no evidence at all to support a claim that any committee member had approached decisions with a closed mind, or that either decision was affected by bias. Ultimately it was accepted for the claimant that no such case was, or could be, advanced.” the judge further added.&nbsp;

What happened with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle?

Harry and Meghan had a bitter and very public divorce from the Royal family. Both decided to drop their royal names and shifted to America. Since then, living as private citizens, the couple has signed multi-million deals with streaming giants such as Netflix and Spotify.

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-harry-shares-the-moment-he-realised-meghan-was-soulmate-498738">&nbsp;Prince Harry shares the moment he realised Meghan was 'soulmate'</a>

Both appeared in an interview with Oprah Winfrey as well where Meghan made the sensational claims that there were racist Royals in Britain's top family. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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California-based Prince Harry has been allowed by the High Court to move forward with a suit against the Home Office for denying him Metropolitan Police bodyguards during trips to the United Kingdom from North America.

California-based Prince Harry has been allowed by the High Court to move forward with a suit against the Home Office for denying him Metropolitan Police bodyguards during trips to the United Kingdom from North America. Harry is challenging a February 2020 decision of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures, also called Ravec that made it clear to the Duke that he would not be given the same degree of personal protection when visiting the country. Reportedly, Prince Harry wanted to pay the specialist Metropolitan Police officers for the protection of his family and himself. However, the Home Office lawyer, in a previous hearing, argued that the Police officers cannot be bought. Read More: UK's Prince Harry seeks right to pay for UK police protection A full high court hearing to follow However, on Friday, the High Court judge noted, “The application for permission to apply for judicial review is allowed in part and refused in part.” The court decided to allow Harry and his counsel to argue on four out of the five grounds; meaning, there will be a proper and full high court hearing. The one ground that Harry has been rejected on is his counsel's insistence to identify the members of the Ravec, which would have certainly included a Royal member that made the final call on Harry's security. “In the course of submissions, it became apparent that, while the claimant may have had disagreements with persons who were Ravec committee members, there was no evidence at all to support a claim that any committee member had approached decisions with a closed mind, or that either decision was affected by bias. Ultimately it was accepted for the claimant that no such case was, or could be, advanced.” the judge further added. What happened with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle? Harry and Meghan had a bitter and very public divorce from the Royal family. Both decided to drop their royal names and shifted to America. Since then, living as private citizens, the couple has signed multi-million deals with streaming giants such as Netflix and Spotify. Read More: Prince Harry shares the moment he realised Meghan was 'soulmate' Both appeared in an interview with Oprah Winfrey as well where Meghan made the sensational claims that there were racist Royals in Britain's top family. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Prince Harry gets the High Court's nod to fight security case against government and Royal Family members

In pics: Final touches as UK’s village prepares for queen’s Platinum Jubilee party

Princess Aiko, the only child of&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;Emperor Naruhito, said on Thursday that taking part in rituals as an&nbsp;adult&nbsp;member of the imperial family remained "rather tense" for her, and&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;is&nbsp;still&nbsp;far&nbsp;in the future.

Japan's imperial family became the centre of global attention last year when Aiko's 30-year-old cousin Mako defied widespread opposition to marry her college sweetheart after&nbsp;being&nbsp;diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the stresses of her tumultuous engagement.

Mako's&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;to Kei Komuro, a commoner who works in a law&nbsp;office in New York, meant giving up her title and leaving the&nbsp;royal&nbsp;family according to imperial family rules - a situation that Aiko, who just turned 20 and became a full-fledged&nbsp;adult&nbsp;royal&nbsp;in December, will face if there is no change.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/four-people-died-after-powerful-earthquake-jolts-japan-images-show-extent-of-damage-463149">Four people died after powerful earthquake jolts Japan, images show extent of damage</a>

Women cannot inherit the&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;throne and&nbsp;royal&nbsp;life is circumscribed. Aiko's mother, Empress Masako, gave up a life as a diplomat and has struggled for years with what the palace terms an "adjustment disorder."

In her debut news conference, Aiko, who spoke carefully and occasionally smiled shyly, said she was mainly focusing on her studies for now and that the reality of&nbsp;being&nbsp;an&nbsp;adult&nbsp;royal&nbsp;was just sinking in.

"For the first time I've taken part in a number of palace rituals, and I was rather tense. It seemed strange that I was&nbsp;being&nbsp;part of things that only my parents had done up to now."

Asked about her future plans and views on&nbsp;marriage, Aiko said she had just finished her second year at university, studying&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;literature, and&nbsp;still&nbsp;has no clear picture of her future after that.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/73-magnitude-earthquake-jolts-japan-tsunami-warning-issues-462946">7.3 magnitude earthquake jolts Japan, tsunami warning issued</a>

"For me,&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;still&nbsp;seems&nbsp;far&nbsp;in the future and I haven't really thought of it. I have no particular thought of my ideal partner, but&nbsp;being&nbsp;with somebody and we can make each other smile seems perfect."

Aiko, who wore a pastel yellow suit and pearl necklace, avoided comment about her cousin's&nbsp;marriage.

Instead, she described&nbsp;being&nbsp;raised "peacefully" and gave unusual glimpses of palace life, including jogging around the grounds with her father and a time she and her parents tried to sit together on a surfboard at the beach and ended up tumbling into the water.

"I've been mostly raised without worries, so I tend to do things at my own pace," she said. "From childhood, I've been a little shy, so I'll try hard from now on to conquer this."

Watch |&nbsp;Japan's machinery orders falls for first time in 5 months

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japans-machinery-orders-falls-for-first-time-in-5-months-463046/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Princess Aiko, the only child of Japanese Emperor Naruhito, said on Thursday that taking part in rituals as an adult member of the imperial family remained "rather tense" for her, and marriage is still far in the future.

Princess Aiko, the only child of Japanese Emperor Naruhito, said on Thursday that taking part in rituals as an adult member of the imperial family remained "rather tense" for her, and marriage is still far in the future. Japan's imperial family became the centre of global attention last year when Aiko's 30-year-old cousin Mako defied widespread opposition to marry her college sweetheart after being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the stresses of her tumultuous engagement. Mako's marriage to Kei Komuro, a commoner who works in a law office in New York, meant giving up her title and leaving the royal family according to imperial family rules - a situation that Aiko, who just turned 20 and became a full-fledged adult royal in December, will face if there is no change. Also read | Four people died after powerful earthquake jolts Japan, images show extent of damage Women cannot inherit the Japanese throne and royal life is circumscribed. Aiko's mother, Empress Masako, gave up a life as a diplomat and has struggled for years with what the palace terms an "adjustment disorder." In her debut news conference, Aiko, who spoke carefully and occasionally smiled shyly, said she was mainly focusing on her studies for now and that the reality of being an adult royal was just sinking in. "For the first time I've taken part in a number of palace rituals, and I was rather tense. It seemed strange that I was being part of things that only my parents had done up to now." Asked about her future plans and views on marriage, Aiko said she had just finished her second year at university, studying Japanese literature, and still has no clear picture of her future after that. Also read | 7.3 magnitude earthquake jolts Japan, tsunami warning issued "For me, marriage still seems far in the future and I haven't really thought of it. I have no particular thought of my ideal partner, but being with somebody and we can make each other smile seems perfect." Aiko, who wore a pastel yellow suit and pearl necklace, avoided comment about her cousin's marriage. Instead, she described being raised "peacefully" and gave unusual glimpses of palace life, including jogging around the grounds with her father and a time she and her parents tried to sit together on a surfboard at the beach and ended up tumbling into the water. "I've been mostly raised without worries, so I tend to do things at my own pace," she said. "From childhood, I've been a little shy, so I'll try hard from now on to conquer this." Watch | Japan's machinery orders falls for first time in 5 months

Japanese emperor's daughter says being an adult royal still 'rather tense', marriage far off

Queen Elizabeth II has stripped her second son Prince Andrew of all royal titles. He's no longer 'his royal highness' but a private citizen. What privileges did he enjoy as member of the British Royal Family? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Prince Andrew stripped of all royal titles

The Swedish royals are among the latest victims of covid19, the Swedish royal courts confirmed that King Carl XVI Gustaf and his wife Queen Silvia have tested positive for the coronavirus.

Sweden: King Carl XVI Gustaf and his wife Queen Silvia have tested positive for the coronavirus

Regulations governing crossbows in Britain are receiving renewed attention after a man was apprehended with one on the grounds of Windsor Castle, where members of the royal family had gathered for the Christmas holiday.

“We are considering options to strengthen controls on crossbows,” a spokesman for Britain’s Home Office said in a statement Tuesday, as part of a continuing review of rules on lethal weapons ordered this year by Priti Patel, the home secretary.

The renewed scrutiny comes days after an intruder breached the castle grounds on Christmas morning. A 19-year-old man was arrested “on suspicion of breach or trespass of a protected site and possession of an offensive weapon,” according to police, while Queen Elizabeth II was on the premises with other members of the royal family.

The British monarch had celebrated the holiday at Windsor Castle instead of at her estate in Sandringham, Norfolk, as is her usual practice. Buckingham Palace said the decision was a “precautionary approach” because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The man arrested, whom police declined to identify, did not enter any buildings or endanger the royal family. But police officers said they found a crossbow after searching him, adding that he was in the care of medical professionals receiving treatment for mental health issues.

Under existing legislation, crossbows can be purchased over the counter or on the internet by those older than 18. Owners do not need a license or certificate to operate the weapons and, unlike shotguns and firearms, police do not have an official record of who owns them and how many are in circulation.

Detectives said they were reviewing a video as part of the investigation, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement Monday, but declined to give further details.

Controls on weapons such as crossbows drew particular concern in 2018 after a British man broke into a neighbor’s home in East Yorkshire, shooting and killing him with a crossbow and injuring his pregnant partner. In a 2021 report investigating the death of the man, a coroner for the county asked top policing officials, including Patel, to review legislation regulating the purchase and possession of crossbows.

“Evidence was heard about the power and lethal capabilities of these weapons, as well as the fact that they are essentially silent,” the coroner, professor Paul Marks, said in the report.

“In my opinion,” he added, “there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken.”

The Home Office said work reviewing the legislation was continuing after the episode in East Yorkshire, adding that it was already an offense to possess arrows, or possess offensive weapons in public spaces “without good reason or lawful authority.”

Regulations governing crossbows in Britain are receiving renewed attention after a man was apprehended with one on the grounds of Windsor Castle, where members of the royal family had gathered for the Christmas holiday.

Regulations governing crossbows in Britain are receiving renewed attention after a man was apprehended with one on the grounds of Windsor Castle, where members of the royal family had gathered for the Christmas holiday. “We are considering options to strengthen controls on crossbows,” a spokesman for Britain’s Home Office said in a statement Tuesday, as part of a continuing review of rules on lethal weapons ordered this year by Priti Patel, the home secretary. The renewed scrutiny comes days after an intruder breached the castle grounds on Christmas morning. A 19-year-old man was arrested “on suspicion of breach or trespass of a protected site and possession of an offensive weapon,” according to police, while Queen Elizabeth II was on the premises with other members of the royal family. The British monarch had celebrated the holiday at Windsor Castle instead of at her estate in Sandringham, Norfolk, as is her usual practice. Buckingham Palace said the decision was a “precautionary approach” because of the coronavirus pandemic. The man arrested, whom police declined to identify, did not enter any buildings or endanger the royal family. But police officers said they found a crossbow after searching him, adding that he was in the care of medical professionals receiving treatment for mental health issues. Under existing legislation, crossbows can be purchased over the counter or on the internet by those older than 18. Owners do not need a license or certificate to operate the weapons and, unlike shotguns and firearms, police do not have an official record of who owns them and how many are in circulation. Detectives said they were reviewing a video as part of the investigation, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement Monday, but declined to give further details. Controls on weapons such as crossbows drew particular concern in 2018 after a British man broke into a neighbor’s home in East Yorkshire, shooting and killing him with a crossbow and injuring his pregnant partner. In a 2021 report investigating the death of the man, a coroner for the county asked top policing officials, including Patel, to review legislation regulating the purchase and possession of crossbows. “Evidence was heard about the power and lethal capabilities of these weapons, as well as the fact that they are essentially silent,” the coroner, professor Paul Marks, said in the report. “In my opinion,” he added, “there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken.” The Home Office said work reviewing the legislation was continuing after the episode in East Yorkshire, adding that it was already an offense to possess arrows, or possess offensive weapons in public spaces “without good reason or lawful authority.”

Britain’s crossbow rules in the crosshairs after Windsor Castle breach

Lady Kitty Spencer— Princess Diana’s niece—who is known for her impeccable fashion sense and her connections to the fashion world, tied the knot with businessman and Foschini Group board chair Michael Lewis at the Villa Aldobrandini in Frascati, Italy, on July 24.

Lady Kitty Spencer— Princess Diana’s niece—who is known for her impeccable fashion sense and her connections to the fashion world, tied the knot with businessman and Foschini Group board chair Michael Lewis at the Villa Aldobrandini in Frascati, Italy, on July 24. The fashionista has been posting gorgeous pictures from her wedding day and if looks could kill, these pictures would be it. She captioned one of her pictures as, “Amore. Per Sempre ♥️ #DGFattoAMano @dolcegabbana #AltaModa” Spencer, who had gotten not one but five gowns made from Dolce & Gabbana, wore a Victorian era-inspired lace ballroom gown for walking down the aisle that had a corseted bodice, puffed shoulders, mockneck, and rows of delicate buttons down the sleeves. The same stitching was used for her long, floor-sweeping veil. Check out her snaps here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kitty Spencer (@kitty.spencer) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kitty Spencer (@kitty.spencer) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kitty Spencer (@kitty.spencer) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kitty Spencer (@kitty.spencer) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kitty Spencer (@kitty.spencer) ×

Wedding: Lady Kitty Spencer, Princess Diana’s niece, wore the dress of dreams

Celebrities and other prominent personalities from different walks of life have attended the Wimbledon Women's Singles finals between Ashleigh Barty and Karolina Pliskova and not too many people know, but global star and entrepreneur Priyanka Chopra Jonas was also present at the event. The ‘We Can Be Hereos’ actress, along with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge— Kate Middleton and Prince William—was spotted in the stands cheering both the players on. &nbsp;

<img alt="Priyanka Chopra Jonas on the stands of Wimbledon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6924419d-4ca6-4064-b6be-12179be26bf0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20%2813%29.jpg" /> 
Tennis stars Martina Navratilova and Billie Jean King were sitting behind Kate and William in the front row while Hollywood icons Tom Cruise and Dame Maggie Smith were also sitting in the gallery a few seats deep. Priyanka Chopra Jonas attended the sporting event with her long-time friend, businesswoman and socialite Natasha Poonawalla. The duo looked dazzled in their respective white attires.&nbsp;

<img alt="Priyanka is all smiles as her friend Natasha Poonawalla looks on" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb9aa4d9-7943-4824-b1ef-5368c49707d5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20%2814%29.jpg" />

 
On the work front, Priyanka is currently shooting for her spy series 'Citadel' in London which also stars ‘Rocketman’ actor Richard Madden in a pivotal role. The actress will also be seen in the fourth installment of the popular franchise ‘Matrix’ titled ‘Matrix 4’ alongside Keanu Reeves, Neil Patrick Harris, Jada Pinkett Smith, among others. Priyanka also has another romcom with Mindy Kaling in the making and a biopic on controversial cult figure Ma Anand Sheela (of ‘Wild Wild Country’ fame) and another series with Amazon that she is executive producing with her husband. 
&nbsp;

Celebrities and other prominent personalities from different walks of life have attended the Wimbledon Women's Singles finals between Ashleigh Barty and Karolina Pliskova and not too many people know, but global star and entrepreneur Priyanka Chopra Jonas was also present at the event.

Celebrities and other prominent personalities from different walks of life have attended the Wimbledon Women's Singles finals between Ashleigh Barty and Karolina Pliskova and not too many people know, but global star and entrepreneur Priyanka Chopra Jonas was also present at the event. The ‘We Can Be Hereos’ actress, along with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge— Kate Middleton and Prince William—was spotted in the stands cheering both the players on. Tennis stars Martina Navratilova and Billie Jean King were sitting behind Kate and William in the front row while Hollywood icons Tom Cruise and Dame Maggie Smith were also sitting in the gallery a few seats deep. Priyanka Chopra Jonas attended the sporting event with her long-time friend, businesswoman and socialite Natasha Poonawalla. The duo looked dazzled in their respective white attires. On the work front, Priyanka is currently shooting for her spy series 'Citadel' in London which also stars ‘Rocketman’ actor Richard Madden in a pivotal role. The actress will also be seen in the fourth installment of the popular franchise ‘Matrix’ titled ‘Matrix 4’ alongside Keanu Reeves, Neil Patrick Harris, Jada Pinkett Smith, among others. Priyanka also has another romcom with Mindy Kaling in the making and a biopic on controversial cult figure Ma Anand Sheela (of ‘Wild Wild Country’ fame) and another series with Amazon that she is executive producing with her husband.

Unseen photos of Priyanka Chopra Jonas attending Wimbledon emerge; go viral

There is not even an iota of doubt in our minds that the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, is one of the most stylish members of the royal family of England. Her impeccable sense of style never ceases to amaze those who are in awe of her, and understand fashion well.&nbsp;

 
At her latest public appearance—which was the Wimbledon Women’s Singles finals between Ashleigh Barty and Karolina Pliskova—Middleton wore a classy, emerald green midi dress and teamed it up with a pair of white stiletto heels. She completed her look with soft, beachy waves and wore a pair of diamond drop earrings and dark glasses. The cap sleeves added charm to the already mesmerising outfit.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kate Middleton is one of the most stylish members of the royal family of England" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a475b59-811a-42d4-8c40-d29967f561df" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20%2825%29_0.jpg" />

Middleton attended the sporting event with her husband and the Dutch of Cambridge, Prince William. The charming prince wore a light blue suit and a pair of club masters.&nbsp;

 
The royal couple got married on April 29, 2011, and has three kids together— Prince George of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge and Prince Louis of Cambridge. The duo started dating while they were studying at St. Andrews University in Scotland.&nbsp;

There is not even an iota of doubt in our minds that the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, is one of the most stylish members of the royal family of England.

There is not even an iota of doubt in our minds that the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, is one of the most stylish members of the royal family of England. Her impeccable sense of style never ceases to amaze those who are in awe of her, and understand fashion well. At her latest public appearance—which was the Wimbledon Women’s Singles finals between Ashleigh Barty and Karolina Pliskova—Middleton wore a classy, emerald green midi dress and teamed it up with a pair of white stiletto heels. She completed her look with soft, beachy waves and wore a pair of diamond drop earrings and dark glasses. The cap sleeves added charm to the already mesmerising outfit. Middleton attended the sporting event with her husband and the Dutch of Cambridge, Prince William. The charming prince wore a light blue suit and a pair of club masters. The royal couple got married on April 29, 2011, and has three kids together— Prince George of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge and Prince Louis of Cambridge. The duo started dating while they were studying at St. Andrews University in Scotland.

Kate Middleton is a sight to behold in this emerald green midi dress at Wimbledon 2021

In a 1995 interview, Princess Diana spoke about her former husband, Prince Charles' relationship with Camilla Parker-Bowles. The interview was watched by 20 million people. Turns out, a BBC reporter had tricked Diana into giving that interview. WION's Palki Sharma has the details.

Gravitas| BBC's deceit: The Diana Interview

Prince Charles wants people to have greater access to royal residencies&nbsp;when he becomes the king, reports suggest. The Prince of Wales wants parts of the royal property to be converted from “private spaces to public places”, according to a report published in the Sunday Times.

His plans include opening up Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Clarence House, Sandringham and Balmoral to the public. The next in line to the British throne also wants royal properties to be available to the public for longer periods than currently allowed.

Prince Charles is currently in talks with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of Cornwall in addition to other royals to implement these plans. When he becomes king, Charles would open the Buckingham Palace and its gardens to the public for the whole year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/prince-charles-pays-tribute-to-my-dear-papa-prince-philip-376731" hreflang="en">Prince Charles pays tribute to 'my dear Papa' Prince Philip</a>

This may be partly due to the growing interest of the public in royal properties. In April 2021, demands for tickets for Buckingham Palace’s lawns forced the Royal Collection Trust (RCT) to halt new bookings.

The charity is responsible for organising the public walkthroughs of royal residencies. Recently, self-guided garden tours were launched and people responded with great interest, so much that the RCT was forced to suspend sales.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/prince-charles-has-been-supporting-harry-and-meghan-during-their-time-of-grief-report-345711" hreflang="en">Prince Charles has been supporting Harry and Meghan during their time of grief: Report</a>

Traditionally, Buckingham Palace’s rooms and exhibitions are open to public through the summer. But these viewings were cancelled for a second year in a row due to the pandemic.

Even then, self-guided garden tours will continue from July to September as planned. The public would able to roam through the lush greenery in the heart of London spread across 16 hectare (39 acre).

Prince Charles wants people to have greater access to royal residencies when he becomes the king, reports suggest. The Prince of Wales wants parts of the royal property to be converted from “private spaces to public places”, according to a report published in the Sunday Times.

Prince Charles wants people to have greater access to royal residencies when he becomes the king, reports suggest. The Prince of Wales wants parts of the royal property to be converted from “private spaces to public places”, according to a report published in the Sunday Times. His plans include opening up Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Clarence House, Sandringham and Balmoral to the public. The next in line to the British throne also wants royal properties to be available to the public for longer periods than currently allowed. Prince Charles is currently in talks with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of Cornwall in addition to other royals to implement these plans. When he becomes king, Charles would open the Buckingham Palace and its gardens to the public for the whole year. Also read: Prince Charles pays tribute to 'my dear Papa' Prince Philip This may be partly due to the growing interest of the public in royal properties. In April 2021, demands for tickets for Buckingham Palace’s lawns forced the Royal Collection Trust (RCT) to halt new bookings. The charity is responsible for organising the public walkthroughs of royal residencies. Recently, self-guided garden tours were launched and people responded with great interest, so much that the RCT was forced to suspend sales. Also read: Prince Charles has been supporting Harry and Meghan during their time of grief: Report Traditionally, Buckingham Palace’s rooms and exhibitions are open to public through the summer. But these viewings were cancelled for a second year in a row due to the pandemic. Even then, self-guided garden tours will continue from July to September as planned. The public would able to roam through the lush greenery in the heart of London spread across 16 hectare (39 acre).

Prince Charles will give public greater access to royal residencies as king: Reports

The Harry and Meghan interview has triggered an international crisis for the British Monarchy. The interview triggered the #AbolishTheMonarchy trend. Are people overreacting to this interview? WION's Palki Sharma tells you more about the hysteria.

Gravitas: Harry & Meghan interview triggers an international crisis for the Royals

What purpose does the British Royal Family serve besides being UK'S soft power? Their lifestyle costs the taxpayer heavily, their powers are unaccountable & they see privilege as a birthright.WION's Palki Sharma asks: Is it time to #AbolishTheMonarchy?

Gravitas: Should the British Monarchy be abolished?

The Harry and Meghan interview has received wall to wall coverage within British media - while the country is still struggling with the Wuhan virus. The British economy suffered its worst slump since 1709. WION's Palki Sharma asks, why are the Brits still obsessed with the Royals?

Gravitas: What explains the obsession with the Royal Family?

Britain is in its worst shape since World War 2. This time, the enemy at the gates is invisible. The coronavirus pandemic continues to grow in the UK as there have been more than four million cases and 124,000 deaths.&nbsp;

The UK is the worst-affected country in Europe. Hundreds are still dying from the virus every day and just as the vaccines emerged so did a new variant, a more potent and more contagious mutation. Britain's response was more lockdowns but that came at a cost. The country is going through its worst economic slump in three centuries. Jobs are disappearing, small businesses have been decimated. It will take at least two years before the economy reaches pre-pandemic levels and we're not done listing Britain's economic woes just yet.&nbsp;

The government has been on a borrowing spree since last year. The budget deficit is at its highest since World War 2. What Britain needs right now is some Churchillian steel to channel the guts of the greatest generation. The generation that braved the barrage of Nazi bombers 70 years back, instead they're busy talking about an interview.&nbsp;

At the outset, let's make one thing clear that we are not trivialising Meghan Markle's struggles, her allegations are serious. The palace must be held to account for its actions but does a family squabble qualify as public interest?&nbsp;

At what point does fascination become obsession? It's an unnecessary distraction even for the government. The prime minister is having to field questions about it. Even the White House has released a statement and we are in the middle of the world's largest vaccination drive. The pandemic is the only thing world leaders should be focusing on but in Britain, this has always been the case, the daily life is shaped by royalty. Britons are urged to speak the queen's English. They gather under the flag and sing 'God Save the Queen'. That's the British national anthem. They line the streets and go gaga over royal weddings, the same ones that they the taxpayers end up paying for.&nbsp;

The monarchy is embedded in every Briton's DNA, but why?&nbsp;

After all, the family doesn't do much other than wave and smile a lot. The royals have managed to convince the country that it needs them and that Britain would disintegrate without a king or queen. There's a common saying among royalists, politicians may come and go but the family remains. Humans love a sense of continuity, the idea of something that exists for posterity.&nbsp;

The monarchy preys on this. It also explains all the pomp and show. Hundreds of years back, the British monarch was considered god's representative on earth.&nbsp;

People aren't naive enough to believe that today but the divine narrative remains. All the traditions, the coronation with holy oils. It's all part of the larger-than-life image. Royalists believe the monarch is endowed with god's mandate to rule. It's an unequal and unjust mandate. The family has its reasons for defending the monarchy but why do the people stick with it?&nbsp;

The queen serves as a reminder of Britain's golden days, when it ruled the seas and had colonies in every continent. In other words, the monarchy is Britain's biggest colonial hangover. Many countries were ruled by monarchies in the middle ages but as British historian Robert Lacey says they were sensible and clever enough to grow out of them.&nbsp;

Britain is in its worst shape since World War 2. This time, the enemy at the gates is invisible. The coronavirus pandemic continues to grow in the UK as there have been more than four million cases and 124,000 deaths.

Britain is in its worst shape since World War 2. This time, the enemy at the gates is invisible. The coronavirus pandemic continues to grow in the UK as there have been more than four million cases and 124,000 deaths. The UK is the worst-affected country in Europe. Hundreds are still dying from the virus every day and just as the vaccines emerged so did a new variant, a more potent and more contagious mutation. Britain's response was more lockdowns but that came at a cost. The country is going through its worst economic slump in three centuries. Jobs are disappearing, small businesses have been decimated. It will take at least two years before the economy reaches pre-pandemic levels and we're not done listing Britain's economic woes just yet. The government has been on a borrowing spree since last year. The budget deficit is at its highest since World War 2. What Britain needs right now is some Churchillian steel to channel the guts of the greatest generation. The generation that braved the barrage of Nazi bombers 70 years back, instead they're busy talking about an interview. At the outset, let's make one thing clear that we are not trivialising Meghan Markle's struggles, her allegations are serious. The palace must be held to account for its actions but does a family squabble qualify as public interest? At what point does fascination become obsession? It's an unnecessary distraction even for the government. The prime minister is having to field questions about it. Even the White House has released a statement and we are in the middle of the world's largest vaccination drive. The pandemic is the only thing world leaders should be focusing on but in Britain, this has always been the case, the daily life is shaped by royalty. Britons are urged to speak the queen's English. They gather under the flag and sing 'God Save the Queen'. That's the British national anthem. They line the streets and go gaga over royal weddings, the same ones that they the taxpayers end up paying for. The monarchy is embedded in every Briton's DNA, but why? After all, the family doesn't do much other than wave and smile a lot. The royals have managed to convince the country that it needs them and that Britain would disintegrate without a king or queen. There's a common saying among royalists, politicians may come and go but the family remains. Humans love a sense of continuity, the idea of something that exists for posterity. The monarchy preys on this. It also explains all the pomp and show. Hundreds of years back, the British monarch was considered god's representative on earth. People aren't naive enough to believe that today but the divine narrative remains. All the traditions, the coronation with holy oils. It's all part of the larger-than-life image. Royalists believe the monarch is endowed with god's mandate to rule. It's an unequal and unjust mandate. The family has its reasons for defending the monarchy but why do the people stick with it? The queen serves as a reminder of Britain's golden days, when it ruled the seas and had colonies in every continent. In other words, the monarchy is Britain's biggest colonial hangover. Many countries were ruled by monarchies in the middle ages but as British historian Robert Lacey says they were sensible and clever enough to grow out of them.

After coronavirus, Britain faces royal affair challenge 

A few hours before the airing of the controversial tell-all interview of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Royal Family will also be making an appearance before the cameras.

In what is being labelled as an apparent attempt to grab the headlines and divert attention before the tell-all interview, the seniors of the Royal Family will be unitedly showing up together on Sunday to support and praise the efforts of the frontline workers during the pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markles-suits-co-star-patrick-j-adams-defends-her-amid-bullying-allegations-368437" hreflang="en">Meghan Markle's 'Suits' co-star Patrick J Adams defends her amid bullying allegations</a>

Hours before Oprah Winfrey's interview goes on air, Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, Camilla, William and Kate will be appearing in a programme where they will pay tribute to the frontline healthcare workers.

The Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, will complement the "extraordinary determination, courage and creativity" shown by the people of the Commonwealth during the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Stressing on how climate change is an "existential threat" which "knows no borders", he will circle back to the pandemic and imply how it has shown that "human health, economic health and planetary health are fundamentally interconnected".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-reveals-why-she-said-yes-to-the-oprah-winfrey-interview-368399" hreflang="en">Meghan Markle reveals why she said yes to the Oprah Winfrey interview</a>

In the same programme, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will have a conversation with the South African doctor and health activist Zolelwa Sifumba about the basic healthcare rights that everyone should be entitled to, and will also stress how it has taken a pandemic for governments to realise this.&nbsp;

"It’s sad, almost, that it’s taken the pandemic for the public to really back and support all those working on the frontline," Kate will be saying.

However, this will fall in direct contrast with the UK governments recent announcement of approving a just 1 per cent pay raise for the staff of the National Health Service (NHS) of the UK.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-paper-told-to-print-front-page-statement-after-meghan-markles-legal-win-368395" hreflang="en">UK paper told to print front-page statement after Meghan Markle's legal win</a>

UK's Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has been facing extreme criticism and pressure to reconsider this proposal which is being described as a 'slap in the face' and a 'disservice to the frontline workers'.

The appearance has, apparently, been timed considering the airing of the tell-all interview and the recent announcement by Buckingham Palace claiming that they are currently probing allegations against Meghan Markle of bullying the royal staff.

In a recently-released clip from the tell-all interview, Meghan can be heard telling Oprah that "the firm" (the royal family) has been playing an "active role" in "perpetuating falsehoods about us".

"Let’s just call this what it is – a calculated smear campaign based on misleading and harmful misinformation," a statement from the Sussexes claimed.

A few hours before the airing of the controversial tell-all interview of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Royal Family will also be making an appearance before the cameras.

A few hours before the airing of the controversial tell-all interview of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Royal Family will also be making an appearance before the cameras. In what is being labelled as an apparent attempt to grab the headlines and divert attention before the tell-all interview, the seniors of the Royal Family will be unitedly showing up together on Sunday to support and praise the efforts of the frontline workers during the pandemic. Also read | Meghan Markle's 'Suits' co-star Patrick J Adams defends her amid bullying allegations Hours before Oprah Winfrey's interview goes on air, Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, Camilla, William and Kate will be appearing in a programme where they will pay tribute to the frontline healthcare workers. The Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, will complement the "extraordinary determination, courage and creativity" shown by the people of the Commonwealth during the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Stressing on how climate change is an "existential threat" which "knows no borders", he will circle back to the pandemic and imply how it has shown that "human health, economic health and planetary health are fundamentally interconnected". Also read | Meghan Markle reveals why she said yes to the Oprah Winfrey interview In the same programme, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will have a conversation with the South African doctor and health activist Zolelwa Sifumba about the basic healthcare rights that everyone should be entitled to, and will also stress how it has taken a pandemic for governments to realise this. "It’s sad, almost, that it’s taken the pandemic for the public to really back and support all those working on the frontline," Kate will be saying. However, this will fall in direct contrast with the UK governments recent announcement of approving a just 1 per cent pay raise for the staff of the National Health Service (NHS) of the UK. Also read | UK paper told to print front-page statement after Meghan Markle's legal win UK's Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has been facing extreme criticism and pressure to reconsider this proposal which is being described as a 'slap in the face' and a 'disservice to the frontline workers'. The appearance has, apparently, been timed considering the airing of the tell-all interview and the recent announcement by Buckingham Palace claiming that they are currently probing allegations against Meghan Markle of bullying the royal staff. In a recently-released clip from the tell-all interview, Meghan can be heard telling Oprah that "the firm" (the royal family) has been playing an "active role" in "perpetuating falsehoods about us". "Let’s just call this what it is – a calculated smear campaign based on misleading and harmful misinformation," a statement from the Sussexes claimed.

Royal family seniors to appear infront of cameras before Harry-Meghan's interview

The row between Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and the royal family is now out in the open. Meghan Markel has accused the Royal Family of 'perpetuating falsehoods' against the couple. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Meghan Markle accuses Royal Family of 'perpetuating falsehoods'

A Thailand court has denied bail to four popular democracy activists who had been charged with violation of the kingdom's royal defamation law.

Four activists were charged for defaming the royal family of Thailand and the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha during a series of protests that took place in the country last year.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thailand-celebrates-its-teachers-day-with-fresh-protests-357148">Thailand celebrates its Teachers' Day with fresh protests</a>

Thousands had flocked to the streets to raise voices against the government and the monarch family alleging them of mistreatment and corruption. However, these protests were not welcomed by the authorities.

Criticism of monarchy is considered to be illegal in the kingdom and carries penalties of up to 15 years in jail.

Among these four activists is also the popular student activist Parit Chiwarak, also known as Penguin, and human rights lawyer Anon Numpa. While Numpa has been charged with lese majeste at least seven times, Chiwarak has been charged more than a dozen times.&nbsp;

The four will have to undergo a pre-trial before they can formally stand trial.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-confirms-374-new-covid-19-cases-357301">Thailand confirms 374 new COVID-19 cases</a>

Nearly 50 people have been charged with the same in the past but while usually people have been granted bail, for the first time four activists have been denied bail.

"The court has not allowed bail based on it being a case with high penalties, and the defendants may repeat the actions," said Krisadang Nutcharut, a lawyer for the activists.&nbsp;

In addition to this, the four activists have also been indicted for sedition and may face a penalty of seven years in jail, if proven guilty. They have also been charged with violating anti-gathering rules and other laws.

A Thailand court has denied bail to four popular democracy activists who had been charged with violation of the kingdom's royal defamation law. Four activists were charged for defaming the royal family of Thailand and the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha during a series of protests that took place in the country last year.

A Thailand court has denied bail to four popular democracy activists who had been charged with violation of the kingdom's royal defamation law. Four activists were charged for defaming the royal family of Thailand and the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha during a series of protests that took place in the country last year. Also see| Thailand celebrates its Teachers' Day with fresh protests Thousands had flocked to the streets to raise voices against the government and the monarch family alleging them of mistreatment and corruption. However, these protests were not welcomed by the authorities. Criticism of monarchy is considered to be illegal in the kingdom and carries penalties of up to 15 years in jail. Among these four activists is also the popular student activist Parit Chiwarak, also known as Penguin, and human rights lawyer Anon Numpa. While Numpa has been charged with lese majeste at least seven times, Chiwarak has been charged more than a dozen times. The four will have to undergo a pre-trial before they can formally stand trial. Also read| Thailand confirms 374 new COVID-19 cases Nearly 50 people have been charged with the same in the past but while usually people have been granted bail, for the first time four activists have been denied bail. "The court has not allowed bail based on it being a case with high penalties, and the defendants may repeat the actions," said Krisadang Nutcharut, a lawyer for the activists. In addition to this, the four activists have also been indicted for sedition and may face a penalty of seven years in jail, if proven guilty. They have also been charged with violating anti-gathering rules and other laws.

In a first, four Thai pro-democracy activists denied bail for defaming royals

Twitter has suspended a Thai pro-royalist account linked to the palace that a Reuters analysis found was connected to thousands of others created in recent weeks spreading posts in favour of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the monarchy.

The Reuters review found tens of thousands of tweets that an expert said appeared to be from accounts amplifying royalist messaging in a push to counter a months-long protest movement that has swelled from opposing the government to breaking a longstanding taboo by challenging the monarchy.

Internal army training documents reviewed by Reuters showed evidence of a coordinated information campaign designed to spread favourable information and discredit opponents.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-protesters-question-kings-control-over-military-units-346252">Thailand: Protesters question king's control over military units</a>

The pro-monarchy @jitarsa_school account was suspended after Reuters sought comment on Wednesday from Twitter on the recent royalist campaign on the social media platform, where protesters have long had a strong presence.

Protesters and royalists have cited the importance of social media in propelling the protest movement, which has become the biggest challenge in decades to the monarchy as well as the government of former junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha.

Created in September, the @jitarsa_school account had more than 48,000 followers before its suspension.

“The account in question was suspended for violating our rules on spam and platform manipulation,” a Twitter representative said on Sunday. She said the suspension was in line with the company’s policies and not a result of the Reuters request for comment.

The account’s profile had said that it trained people for the Royal Volunteers programme, which is run by the Royal Office. A Facebook page for the Royal Volunteers School, which posts pro-monarchy videos and news of the programme, also identifies the Twitter account as its own.

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Neither the school nor the Royal Volunteers headquarters responded to requests for comment on the suspension. The “Volunteer Spirit 904” programme was established during the current king’s reign, which began in 2016, to build loyalty to the monarchy.

The palace did not respond to a request for comment. It has a policy of not speaking to media and has not commented since the start of protests in July that initially targeted the government before breaking taboos by calling for curbs to the king’s powers.

Royalist fightback

In recent weeks, royalist hashtags have begun trending on Twitter, an important platform for opponents of the government even before protests began in July.

The Reuters analysis found that more than 80% of the accounts following @jitarsa_school had also been created since the start of September. A sample of 4,600 of the recently created accounts showed that all they did was promote the royalist hashtags - an indication of the kind of activity that would not be associated with regular Twitter users.

A sample of 559 retweets of the account’s tweets were virtually all from accounts with bot-like characteristics, according to research by social media consultancy Drone Emprit for Reuters.

“Government forces have been trying to counter the protesters,” said Saijai Liangpunsakul of the independent Social Media Monitoring for Peace group. “Twitter has taken down some accounts, but there are many more.”

Hashtags promoted by the suspended account, usually alongside pictures of the king and other royals, included those that translate as: #StopViolatingTheMonarchy, #ProtectTheMonarchy, #WeLoveTheMotherOfTheLand, #WeLoveTheMonarchy and #MinionsLoveTheMonarchy.

Royalist group leader Warong Dechgitvigrom declined to comment on the account’s suspension, saying he was unaware of it.

He told Reuters there were more pro-monarchy messages on Twitter because royalists increasingly recognised the need to counter protesters’ messages and had encouraged each another to join the platform.

“Pro-monarchy hashtags are authentic, born out of true feelings,” he said.

Protestors accused by royalists

Royalists have accused protesters of inauthentic activity on Twitter, with coordinated campaigns around hashtags.

But Parit “Penguin” Chiwarak, one of the protest leaders, said protesters using the platform were genuine and he welcomed the suspension of the pro-royalist account.

“They’re not recruited to trend hashtags like the army and they don’t use taxpayers’ money,” he said.

Although not directly linked to the @jitarsa_school account, a 28-page army document reviewed by Reuters showed an organised information operation to target “opponents” and spread pro-monarchy messages on Twitter.

The document says 17,562 Twitter accounts run by 9,743 army officers are split into a “White Team” and a “Grey/Black Team” that were instructed to tweet with coordinated hashtags, as well as to like, retweet and follow one another.

The document suggests measures to appear more like authentic accounts.

The army on Saturday acknowledged the document is genuine, saying in a Facebook post it was used in a training session to strengthen the army’s public relations efforts.

In early October, Twitter announced it had taken down 926 accounts linked to the Thai army for violating its platform-manipulation policies by amplifying pro-government content and targeting political opposition figures.

The army at the time denied that the accounts belonged to army officials.

Twitter has suspended a Thai pro-royalist account linked to the palace that a Reuters analysis found was connected to thousands of others created in recent weeks spreading posts in favour of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the monarchy.

Twitter has suspended a Thai pro-royalist account linked to the palace that a Reuters analysis found was connected to thousands of others created in recent weeks spreading posts in favour of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the monarchy. The Reuters review found tens of thousands of tweets that an expert said appeared to be from accounts amplifying royalist messaging in a push to counter a months-long protest movement that has swelled from opposing the government to breaking a longstanding taboo by challenging the monarchy. Internal army training documents reviewed by Reuters showed evidence of a coordinated information campaign designed to spread favourable information and discredit opponents. Also read| Thailand: Protesters question king's control over military units The pro-monarchy @jitarsa_school account was suspended after Reuters sought comment on Wednesday from Twitter on the recent royalist campaign on the social media platform, where protesters have long had a strong presence. Protesters and royalists have cited the importance of social media in propelling the protest movement, which has become the biggest challenge in decades to the monarchy as well as the government of former junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha. Created in September, the @jitarsa_school account had more than 48,000 followers before its suspension. “The account in question was suspended for violating our rules on spam and platform manipulation,” a Twitter representative said on Sunday. She said the suspension was in line with the company’s policies and not a result of the Reuters request for comment. The account’s profile had said that it trained people for the Royal Volunteers programme, which is run by the Royal Office. A Facebook page for the Royal Volunteers School, which posts pro-monarchy videos and news of the programme, also identifies the Twitter account as its own. × Neither the school nor the Royal Volunteers headquarters responded to requests for comment on the suspension. The “Volunteer Spirit 904” programme was established during the current king’s reign, which began in 2016, to build loyalty to the monarchy. The palace did not respond to a request for comment. It has a policy of not speaking to media and has not commented since the start of protests in July that initially targeted the government before breaking taboos by calling for curbs to the king’s powers. Royalist fightback In recent weeks, royalist hashtags have begun trending on Twitter, an important platform for opponents of the government even before protests began in July. The Reuters analysis found that more than 80% of the accounts following @jitarsa_school had also been created since the start of September. A sample of 4,600 of the recently created accounts showed that all they did was promote the royalist hashtags - an indication of the kind of activity that would not be associated with regular Twitter users. A sample of 559 retweets of the account’s tweets were virtually all from accounts with bot-like characteristics, according to research by social media consultancy Drone Emprit for Reuters. “Government forces have been trying to counter the protesters,” said Saijai Liangpunsakul of the independent Social Media Monitoring for Peace group. “Twitter has taken down some accounts, but there are many more.” Hashtags promoted by the suspended account, usually alongside pictures of the king and other royals, included those that translate as: #StopViolatingTheMonarchy, #ProtectTheMonarchy, #WeLoveTheMotherOfTheLand, #WeLoveTheMonarchy and #MinionsLoveTheMonarchy. Royalist group leader Warong Dechgitvigrom declined to comment on the account’s suspension, saying he was unaware of it. He told Reuters there were more pro-monarchy messages on Twitter because royalists increasingly recognised the need to counter protesters’ messages and had encouraged each another to join the platform. “Pro-monarchy hashtags are authentic, born out of true feelings,” he said. Protestors accused by royalists Royalists have accused protesters of inauthentic activity on Twitter, with coordinated campaigns around hashtags. But Parit “Penguin” Chiwarak, one of the protest leaders, said protesters using the platform were genuine and he welcomed the suspension of the pro-royalist account. “They’re not recruited to trend hashtags like the army and they don’t use taxpayers’ money,” he said. Although not directly linked to the @jitarsa_school account, a 28-page army document reviewed by Reuters showed an organised information operation to target “opponents” and spread pro-monarchy messages on Twitter. The document says 17,562 Twitter accounts run by 9,743 army officers are split into a “White Team” and a “Grey/Black Team” that were instructed to tweet with coordinated hashtags, as well as to like, retweet and follow one another. The document suggests measures to appear more like authentic accounts. The army on Saturday acknowledged the document is genuine, saying in a Facebook post it was used in a training session to strengthen the army’s public relations efforts. In early October, Twitter announced it had taken down 926 accounts linked to the Thai army for violating its platform-manipulation policies by amplifying pro-government content and targeting political opposition figures. The army at the time denied that the accounts belonged to army officials.

Twitter suspends Thai royalist account linked to influence campaign

A new biography of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has offered a unique insight into what led the couple to step down from royal duties. Watch report.

Harry-Meghan book reveals bitter split | 1st look at the new book 'Finding Freedom'

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