Buckingham Palace has reportedly lodged a complaint with the UK’s press watchdog following an article in Britain’s tabloid newspaper The Sun claiming the Queen backed the UK’s exit from the European Union. It’s commonly referred to as “Brexit” – a British exit.
The Sydney Morning Herald is this morning reporting the Palace has filed a complaint against the article with the Independent Press Standards Organisation in the UK.
A statement to SMH from Buckingham Palace said the article is “spurious” and that the monarch remains politically neutral.
The article in The Sun, owned by Rupert Murdoch, quotes anonymous sources and a “bust up” between The Queen and former deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, reports the BBC.
The Queen backs the Brexit – read tomorrow’s front page exclusive here: https://t.co/pykw3ApLW5 pic.twitter.com/T95rcdfPig
— The Sun (@TheSun) March 8, 2016
However, Clegg has taken to Twitter saying he does not recall this.
Re Sun story. As I told the journalist this is nonsense. I’ve no recollection of this happening & its not the sort of thing I would forget
— Nick Clegg (@nick_clegg) March 8, 2016
In a statement to the BBC though, The Sun has said it will stand by its story.
“The Sun stands by its story, which was based upon two impeccable sources and presented in a robust, accessible fashion.
“The Sun will defend this complaint vigorously.”
B&T has contacted the press department for Buckingham Palace with a confirmation the complaint had been filed. Further comment will be sought during UK business hours.
Lead image via iStock.
