Prince Philip cracks inappropriate joke at fertility clinic

With a reputation for mischievous one-liners Prince Philip added to his history of cheeky royal gaffs by quipping “at least you are all legitimate” while visiting a family planning centre in London yesterday.

The 92-year-old’s wisecracking remark was apparently well received by those at the Margaret Pyke Centre reproductive clinic with the UK’s express reporting that the staff were in fits of giggles during the royal visit.

“Yes he did say that, but it was all very, very good natured, ” said Mike Waddington who works at the clinic.

“It came just after the speech about the association. The Prince got a big round of applause and his response was to say that joke, and he got another laugh with that. “

While thanking the Queen’s husband for attending, Claire Murdoch, chief executive of the Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It’s to be admired that your Royal Highness supported our work when it was more controversial and ground-breaking. This makes your return today all the more impressive and appreciated.”

After several location changes it is the third time the prince has opened the sexual health centre in its 45-year history.

The remark is the latest in a long line of faux pas the Duke has made in his 61 years as Queen Consort. Here are some of the best.

Prince Philip yesterday cracked one of his cheeky off-colour comments as he opened a family planning clinic in London yesterday.

To a child while visiting a space shuttle: “You’ll never fly in it, you’re too fat.”

“How could I be unfaithful to the Queen? There is no way she could possibly retaliate.”

On hearing Madonna would perform at an event: “Are we going to need earplugs?”

2001, to Elton John: “So it’s you that owns that ghastly car is it?”

1967: “I would like to go to Russia, although the bastards murdered half my family.”

1969 on Tom Jones: “It’s hard to see how he is popular. He sings the most hideous songs.”

1999, to deaf kids standing near a band: “If you’re near that music it’s no wonder you’re deaf.”

Speaking about Princess Anne: “If it doesn’t fart or eat hay then she isn’t interested.”

To a Scot driving teacher: “How do you keep the natives off booze long enough to pass?”

2009, to a fashion designer: “You didn’t design your beard too well, did you?”

1981 “Everybody wanted more leisure. Now they’re complaining they’re unemployed.”

2000: “Dukes have been known to marry chorus girls. Some have even married Americans.”

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