TheCable

Susan Hussey, a former aide at the Buckingham Palace, has apologised to Ngozi Fulani, founder of a British charity organisation, for repeatedly asking questions on her background.

Fulani had accused Hussey of asking her: “What part of Africa are you from?’, ‘what nationality are you?’, ‘where do you really come from?’, ‘where do your people come from?’,” at a palace event, even after the charity founder said she was British.

The incident generated reactions on social media, with many accusing the royal family of being racist.

Hussey, who is the godmother to the Prince of Wales and served as lady-in-waiting to the late Queen Elizabeth II, subsequently stepped down from her role at the Buckingham Palace.

In a statement on Friday, the Buckingham Palace said Hussey met with Fulani to address the incident.

It said at the meeting filled with “warmth and understanding”, the former aide apologised “sincerely” for her comments and the distress they caused to Fulani.

It added that Hussey has pledged to deepen her awareness of the sensitivities involved.

“Ms Fulani, who has unfairly received the most appalling torrent of abuse on social media and elsewhere, has accepted this apology and appreciates that no malice was intended,” the statement reads.

“The Royal Households will continue their focus on inclusion and diversity, with an enhanced programme of work which will extend knowledge and training programmes, examining what can be learnt from Sistah Space, and ensuring these reach all members of their communities.

“Both Ms Fulani and Lady Susan ask now that they be left in peace to rebuild their lives in the wake of an immensely distressing period for them both.

“They hope that their example shows a path to resolution can be found with kindness, co-operation and the condemnation of discrimination wherever it takes root.

“It is the wish of both parties that, at the end of the UN’s 16 days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, attention can now return to the important work of Sistah Space in supporting women affected by domestic abuse.

“Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort and other members of the Royal Family have been kept fully informed and are pleased that both parties have reached this welcome outcome.”