Duke urges US public to ‘reject hate speech’

The Duke of Sussex has urged people in the US to “reject hate speech” and vote in the country’s upcoming presidential election.

Harry and the Duchess of Sussex appeared in a live video apparently from their California home as part of the Time 100, a list compiled by the magazine to celebrate the world’s most influential people.

“As we approach this November, it’s vital that we reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity,” Harry said as he sat on a bench alongside Meghan.

He also reminded Americans to be discerning in terms of the content they consume online.

Harry said: “When the bad outweighs the good, whether we realise it or not, it erodes our ability to have compassion and to put ourself in someone else’s shoes.

“Because when one person buys into negativity online, the effects are felt exponentially. It’s time to not only reflect, but act.”

Broadcaster Piers Morgan criticised the duke for his remarks, tweeting: “Prince Harry poking his woke nose into the US election and effectively telling Americans to vote against President Trump is completely unacceptable behaviour for a member of the royal family.”

A source close to Harry insisted the duke was not referring to US President Donald Trump or any other individual.

“The duke was talking about the tone of debate in the run-up to an election which is already quite febrile,” they said.

“He is not talking about any candidate or specific campaign.”