In the wake of a violent attack by Hashem Abedi, the brother of the Manchester Arena bomber, on prison officers at HMP Frankland, the UK's prison staff are calling for enhanced safety measures. The incident, which involved homemade knives and hot oil, has reignited the debate over the safety of prison officers working with high-risk inmates. Mark Fairhurst, national chairman of the Prison Officers' Association, emphasized the need for tactical options like stun guns to neutralize threats effectively.

Official figures reveal a disturbing rise in violence within UK prisons, with HMP Frankland experiencing its highest assault rates in nearly a decade. The Ministry of Justice reported a record number of assaults on staff across England and Wales, underscoring the urgent need for improved security measures. In response, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced a trial deployment of Tasers and a review into the provision of stab vests for prison officers.

The attack at HMP Frankland has also prompted a temporary suspension of kitchen access for inmates in separation units, highlighting concerns over the management of high-risk prisoners. The move comes as part of broader efforts to reassess and enhance the safety protocols within the UK's prison system, ensuring the protection of both staff and inmates.

As the Ministry of Justice continues to evaluate the effectiveness of current security measures, the incident at HMP Frankland serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by prison officers. The call for stun guns and body armor reflects a growing consensus on the need for more robust protections in an increasingly volatile environment. The outcome of the ongoing reviews and trials will be closely watched by all stakeholders in the criminal justice system.

Recent revelations have shed light on the early reservations held by a close confidante of the late Queen Elizabeth II regarding Meghan Markle's relationship with Prince Harry. Lady Elizabeth Anson, a cousin of the Queen and a respected figure within royal circles, reportedly expressed doubts about the sincerity of Meghan's feelings for Harry, suggesting that the former actress might have 'engineered' their romance. These claims, brought to light by royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith, highlight the tensions that existed within the royal family prior to the couple's 2018 wedding.

According to Bedell Smith's account, Lady Anson, who was known for her close relationship with the Queen and her role as a royal party planner, initially found Meghan to be 'full of charm' and 'intelligent and thoughtful' upon her engagement to Harry. However, as the wedding approached, Lady Anson's perspective shifted, leading her to question whether Meghan was truly in love with Harry or if she had orchestrated their relationship for personal gain. 'We hope but don't quite think she is in love. We think she engineered it all,' Lady Anson is reported to have said.

The biographer also recounts Lady Anson's concerns about the dynamic between Meghan and Harry, noting that Meghan's intelligence and strength could overshadow Harry's more subdued personality. 'Meghan is clearly brighter than Harry, but she has to be careful not to overshadow him,' Lady Anson allegedly remarked. These comments reflect the broader unease within parts of the royal family about the couple's compatibility and the potential challenges their union might bring to the monarchy.

In response to these claims, a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has declined to comment, while a source close to the couple dismissed the allegations as 'just gossip.' Nonetheless, these revelations offer a glimpse into the private discussions and concerns that surrounded one of the most talked-about royal weddings in recent history, underscoring the complexities of integrating a Hollywood actress into the centuries-old traditions of the British royal family.