Five officers from the Metropolitan Police’s Royalty and Specialist Protection unit have been prohibited from working at Kensington Palace following an internal investigation into allegations of misogynistic behaviour. The inquiry was launched after a complaint by a female member of staff at the palace, citing a series of inappropriate remarks reportedly made between August 2023 and September 2024.

The complaints led to an internal review by the Met, which found that while the officers’ conduct did not meet the formal threshold for misconduct, the behaviour fell below the standards expected of police personnel assigned to key protective roles. As a result, the five officers were stripped of their access passes and barred from working at any royal palace in the future. The Prince and Princess of Wales, who have offices and a residence at Kensington Palace, were informed of the decision but were not involved in it.

Among the reported incidents was one officer’s comment describing Kensington Palace as “full of little Hitlers,” while another reportedly attempted to add a female member of household staff as a friend on Facebook. Sources characterized these actions as misogynistic, though not sexual in nature. The officers were placed on restricted duties during the investigation and have since been cleared to resume full duties, now reportedly assigned to armed roles outside the Royal household.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and trust, stating that the officers underwent reflective practice sessions to consider their behaviour and identify areas for improvement. The spokesperson affirmed the Met’s ongoing commitment to upholding high standards among all officers.

This development comes amid wider scrutiny of the Royalty and Specialist Protection unit, which has been under investigation for multiple allegations of misconduct involving more than 20 officers. Among other complaints, some officers were accused of sleeping on duty, leaving posts without permission, and falsifying attendance records, primarily related to security at Windsor Castle. The security at Windsor Castle, although geographically within Thames Valley Police’s jurisdiction, is provided by the Met’s specialist team. Windsor Castle has been a focal point for high-profile events, including four state visits in the past year.

Former detective chief inspector Mick Neville commented on the changing workplace culture, noting that comments once considered harmless banter are now subject to closer scrutiny, especially within departments entrusted with sensitive protective duties.

While the Prince and Princess of Wales maintain residences and offices at Kensington Palace, they spend much of their time at their homes in Norfolk and Windsor. The restrictions on the five officers mark part of broader efforts by the Metropolitan Police to address internal concerns regarding conduct and discipline among those assigned to royal protection duties.