Sir Elton John has leapt to the defence of the Duke & Duchess of Sussex after articles appeared in the British press accruing the couple of hypocrisy over their use of private jets.
Taking to Twitter, the singer and friend of The Royal Family posted a lengthy statement accusing the media of publishing “relentless and untrue assassinations of their character.”
In full, Sir Elton said: “I am deeply distressed by today’s distorted and malicious account in the press surrounding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s private stay at my home in Nice last week.
“Prince Harry’s Mother, Diana Princess Of Wales was one of my dearest friends. I feel a profound sense of obligation to protect Harry and his family from the unnecessary press intrusion that contributed to Diana’s untimely death.
“After a hectic year continuing their hard work and dedication to charity, David and I wanted the young family to have a private holiday inside the safety and tranquility of our home. To maintain a high level of much-needed protection, we provided them with a private jet flight.
“To support Prince Harry’s commitment to the environment, we ensured their flight was carbon neutral, by making the appropriate contribution to Carbon Footprint.
“I highly respect and applaud both Harry and Meghan’s commitment to charity and I’m calling on the press to cease these relentless and untrue assassinations on their character that are spuriously crafted on an almost daily basis.”
Sir Elton’s intervention comes after a Member of Parliament called on the Duke & Duchess of Sussex to ‘lead by example’ following heavy criticism of the couple for their use of a private jet.
Harry & Meghan have undertaken four journeys on a private jet in just eleven days, leading to critics to level accusations of hypocrisy due to their outspoken views on environmental issues.
Labour MP Teresa Pearce says that Their Royal Highnesses should lead by example considering their advocacy for protecting the environment.
The MP for Erith and Thamesmead said: “Given the position they have taken publicly about being responsible on climate change, this does seem an anomaly which they should look at.
“It’s up to all of us to cut our carbon emissions, and the number of flights we take a year.
“That is really important — and someone as high profile as that should lead by example.”
The Duke & Duchess of Sussex, alongside baby Archie, have been holidaying in France and Ibiza.
However, critics have pointed out that the private jet they travel on is estimated to use seven times the emissions per person compared to a commercial flight.
What do you think about Harry & Meghan’s use of a private jet? Should they practice what they preach, or are they perfectly within their rights? Comment below and let us know:
