Lady Hussey’s racist remarks will take an already bruised palace two steps back

One can only imagine how many Commonwealth countries must view what allegedly passes for small talk at a reception

The resignation of Lady Susan Hussey after making unacceptable and deeply regrettable comments" to a black female guest at a Buckingham Palace reception will undoubtedly cast a gloomy shadow over the beginning of the king's reign.

No matter that Lady Hussey, 83, who served six long loyal decades as lady-in-waiting to the late Queen - and who was nicknamed No 1 Head Girl" by royal staff - is not a key aide in the king's private office. She is a close friend of Charles, who made her a godmother to his eldest son, William.