Prince Andrew could play a more prominent role than many people think at Prince Philip’s memorial service on Tuesday.
That’s according to royal expert Robert Jobson, who believes the Duke of York could even be by the Queen’s side during the event at Westminster Abbey.
Speaking on GB News’ Breakfast with Eamonn and Isabel, Mr Jobson said: “I think Prince Andrew may play a more prominent role than we think. My understanding is that someone has to support the Queen and I think he’ll be at her side.
“I think Charles will probably be with Camilla, we’ll have to see what happens, but I know that has been discussed.”
A spokesperson for the Duke of York confirmed on Monday that Andrew will be in attendance, weeks after paying out millions to settle a civil sexual assault case.
The service for the Duke of Edinburgh will pay tribute to his dedication to “family, nation and Commonwealth” and will feature elements he planned for his own funeral which were forbidden due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Royal expert, Robert Jobson
GB News
Prince Andrew could be set to play a prominent role in Tuesday's memorial
CHRIS RADBURN
It is understood some of Philip’s older great-grandchildren may attend, giving the youngest generation of royals the chance to honour their much-loved great-grandfather.
Mr Jobson believes the Queen will “make every effort” to keep her activities as normal as possible, while also quashing speculation that she may not attend the service at all.
He added: “I’m sure she’ll, hell or high water, want to be there to pay her respects to her beloved husband.
"I know there’s a discussion on helicopters for the Commonwealth memorial but it depends how she feels when she gets up this morning.
“If she’s in some discomfort I think the discomfort won’t discourage her from being there and there will be organisation on how to get there.
“But with all those heads of state, foreign crown princes and kings and queens there and her only family there, her own family there, I think she’ll make every effort to come through the front door and do her best to get to her position using a walking stick.”