The Queen would not have a row with anyone - but she was rather surprised by many things [about Diana]

Lady Kennard

In a rare interview, Prince Andrew's godmother adds: "The Queen would never quite understand what Princess Diana was about - it would be impossible."

But the comments - in an interview for the documentary series Queen and Country - were called "harsh and not fair" by one of Diana's close friends, Vivienne Parry.

Fine qualities

Lady Kennard told writer and broadcaster William Shawcross: "I was always surprised that they didn't get on... the Queen would not have a row with anyone - but she was rather surprised by many things [about Diana]."

Prince Charles' wife "had many fine qualities", the 82-year-old continued.

But she added: "It must have been very difficult for the Royal Family to deal with the rest."

The remarks feature in Private Passions, the second in the four-part documentary series Queen And Country, to be shown on Wednesday 8 May.

Caring mother

Buckingham Palace gave programme makers unprecedented access and allowed many royals, close friends, advisers and staff to share their memories.

The Queen's press secretary between 1990 and 1997, Charles Anson, said the Queen's door had always been open to Diana.

And Princess Anne said the Queen was a caring mother.

Premier Tony Blair and former prime ministers John Major and Baroness Thatcher were also interviewed.

Queen And Country, produced by Mentorn, will be screened on BBC1 at 2100 BST on Wednesdays.