CRITICS of the Royal Family - and their numbers have grown significantly in recent years - argue that they do not live in the real world, doing real jobs, and facing real pressures.

We hope, therefore, that those critics will give Prince Harry due credit for wanting to see frontline action with the Army in Iraq.

The prince has made mistakes in his young life, not least his misjudgement in attending a fancy dress party in a Nazi uniform.

But how many of us can say we haven't done stupid things we regret?

His refusal to be a token member of the Armed Forces, watching from his privileged perch as others go off to war, is commendable.

But it is how it should be. Anyone who joins the Forces does so in the knowledge that they may have to put their lives on the line by going to war.

And while we should all understand the sensitivities surrounding the decision to send him to war, it would be a sham if Prince Harry was treated any differently.

The dangers of serving in Iraq are all too evident and the prince will face them like every other British soldier. He will be living in the real world, doing a real job, and facing real pressures.

We wish Prince Harry, and everyone else who is serving their country in war zones abroad, a safe return.