Mountbatten 'a Homosexual’ (Press, 22 August 1989)
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Summary: Mountbatten 'a Homosexual’ (Press, 22 August 1989)
A new book titled "The Greatest Treason" by Richard Deacon, the pen name for former foreign correspondent Donald McCormick, makes serious allegations about Earl Mountbatten, describing him as a homosexual and a security risk who relayed confidential messages to Soviet authorities. Deacon portrays Mountbatten, a celebrated war hero and a mentor to the royal family, as self-serving and egotistical, accusing him of even contemplating the idea of becoming the King of the Rhineland during a period of instability in Germany. Mountbatten, who lost his life in an IRA bombing in 1979, was reportedly known within naval circles to be homosexual prior to World War II, with accounts suggesting he engaged in homosexual activities while at sea. This aspect of his character raises concerns for some officials, including an unnamed former C.I.A. officer who questioned how Mountbatten secured notable promotions and roles despite being perceived as a security risk. The officer’s quote highlights the bewilderment over whether he had ever undergone proper vetting. The book also claims that Mountbatten expressed dissent towards American foreign policy in a message sent to the Soviets, indicating that in the event of a Cold War conflict, he would align with the USSR rather than the United States. This assertion adds weight to Deacon's argument about Mountbatten's dual loyalties. In addition, Deacon, who previously identified Anthony Blunt as a Soviet spy, proposes in this latest work that Guy Liddell, rather than Sir Roger Hollis, was the elusive "fifth man" in the notorious spy ring involving Blunt, Kim Philby, Donald Maclean, and Guy Burgess. This assertion contradicts narratives presented in Peter Wright's controversial book "Spycatcher," which had placed a spotlight on allegations surrounding Sir Roger. Overall, Deacon's revelations about Mountbatten have ignited discussions about his legacy and the implications of his personal life on national security during a pivotal era in history.
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