Meghan Markle is a victim of racism, sexism and misogyny, says John Bercow

Media and public targets royal for criticising Donald Trump and espousing feminist values, former Commons speaker says

John Bercow has said the Duchess of Sussex was subjected to “explicit and obnoxious racism”.

The former speaker of the House of Commons explained he feels deeply sympathetic towards Meghan.

“I want to say that I believe unequivocally that Meghan has been the victim of explicit and obnoxious racism,” he told the The Sunday Times Magazine

“I am crystal clear about that. She has been subjected to racism, sexism and misogyny.”

Mr Bercow added he believes Meghan has been targeted by the media and the public because she has previously criticised Donald Trump, the US president, and espoused feminist values, both of which, he said, would have riled up the “bigot factions” in the UK.

Mr Bercow went on to say he understood why Meghan and the Duke of Sussex chose to step down from their roles in the royal family and spend more time in Canada, where the couple are currently thought to be living.

“Harry and Meghan have a right to opt for change, accepting some of the consequences and costs,” he said.

“They are entitled to put their marriage and health first.”

Mr Bercow’s comments come after Priti Patel, the home secretary, disputed Meghan had faced racism in the UK.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live last month, she dismissed claims negative reports about Meghan had been driven by racism, arguing people of any background “can get on in life” in the UK.

“I’m not in that category at all where I believe there’s racism at all. I think we live in a great country,” Ms Patel said before going on to describe Britain as a “great society, full of opportunity”.

When asked directly if she believed the media had been in any way racist towards Meghan, the Cabinet minister replied: “I don’t think so, no... I certainly haven’t seen that through any debates or commentary or things of that nature.”