Here's Why the Royals Don't Usually Wear Seat Belts

Former royal protection officer Simon Morgan is speaking out about why royals are not usually photographed wearing seatbelts.

The issue was brought to light again after Prince Philip, 97, was involved in a car accident.

“There are always anomalies. In the threat and risk matrix it’s a matter of looking at each individual situation to decide what is the best way of achieving what needs to be achieved. For example, considering that a quick entry or exit to a vehicle is easier when people aren’t strapped into seatbelts,” Simon told Hello.

He continued, “Also, what is significant about this event or situation? Is an individual’s look and appearance important? And also an individual’s choice,” he said, adding: “Protection is a very unique area of policing and there are a lot grey areas, but you are always judging each situation to weigh up the risks and threats with the outcomes you are trying to achieve.”

He added that there are times when the royal family is not legally required to wear a seatbelt, including when “a person [is] involved in a procession organized by or on behalf of the Crown or which is commonly or customarily held.”