Meghan Markle’s pal Omid Scobie slams Buckingham Palace over ‘reason’ for racism apology
MEGHAN Markle’s friend has suggested Buckingham Palace only apologised over the race storm so it doesn’t “overshadow” Prince William’s US trip.
The Palace issued a statement saying Prince of Wales’ godmother had resigned after she was accused of quizzing guest Ngozi Fulani over her nationality at a reception yesterday.
Finding Freedom author Omid Scobie – a close pal of the Duchess of Sussex – has taken a swip at the royal residence.
He tweeted: “A speedy response from the Palace, who have a history of silence or denial for incidents regarding race. Lessons finally learned?
“Or is this just not wanting anything to overshadow the Wales’ Boston visit.
“Arriving in the US amidst another race scandal wouldn’t be the best start.”
His pointed remarks come 18 months after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stunned the world by alleging a member of the royal family made racist remarks about the colour of their son Archie’s skin.
Following the latest racism claim, Buckingham Palace this morning confirmed staffer Lady Susan Hussey – a pal of the late Queen – involved had stepped aside after an investigation.
She is said to have asked a guest Ngozi Fulani about nationality.
Ngozi, who was born in Britain, attended the event on behalf of domestic abuse charity Sistah Space to mark the UN’s 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.
She said she was horrified when Lady Susan approached her, moved her hair to see her name badge and asked: “Where do your people come from?”
The employee repeatedly questioned what part of Africa she was from and when she first came to the UK, Ngozi claims.
She said the experience, just 10 minutes after arriving, left her “insulted” with “mixed feelings” about the royal visit.
A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “We take this incident extremely seriously and have investigated immediately to establish the full details.
“In this instance, unacceptable and deeply regrettable comments have been made.
“We have reached out to Ngozi Fulani on this matter, and are inviting her to discuss all elements of her experience in person if she wishes.
“In the meantime, the individual concerned would like to express her profound apologies for the hurt caused and has stepped aside from her honorary role with immediate effect.
“All members of the Household are being reminded of the diversity and inclusivity policies which they are required to uphold at all times.”
Lady Susan served as the Queen’s lady-in-waiting for 60 years, and is Wills’ godmother.
Prince William’s team also commented, saying: “I was really disappointed to hear about the guest’s experience at Buckingham Palace last night.
“Obviously, I wasn’t there, but racism has no place in our society.
“The comments were unacceptable, and it is right that the individual has stepped aside with immediate effect.”
It comes as Wills and Kate arrive in Boston today for a series of engagements, including Wills’ glitzy Earthshot Prize Award.
The three-day international trip is their first since becoming the Prince and Princess of Wales.
It culminates at the MGM Music Hall on December 2 for the Earthshot do, described by one insider as Wills’ “Super Bowl” moment.
