Has the Queen sent Kate Middleton to the Job Centre?
A tailor-made-for-Sunday headline in yesterday’s Mail on Sunday informed us:
“Queen: Kate should get a proper job.”
Ho, ho, ho, that should put on a few hundred thousand copies. The online header is even more explicit. “Queen: Kate should get a proper job before Prince William announces their engagement.”
But is it true? It depends what you mean by “true”.
Reading between the lines, here’s my imagined scenario of how this story emerged into the light of day — I could be totally wrong.
Katie Nicholl, the Diary Editor, had written a piece about Kate Middleton for her inside column. It covered the continuing criticism of Kate’s apparent lack of a job, which seems to exercise some people almost to the point of madness.
The article, which was basically supportive, obviously drew on inside information from the Middleton family for its detailed descriptions of Kate’s involvement in the family businesses as a kind of creative director, including shooting product photos for the websites.
However, in another part of the newsroom, the MoS editorial department had received a briefing from a Palace “source” telling of the Queen’s doubts about Kate Middleton — “a nice enough girl” — and specifically mentioning HM’s belief that Kate should get a job or develop a career before an engagement is announced. This is graphically described as the “Kate Problem”.
The story was written up and tacked onto the diary piece under the Diary Editor’s byline to make a great front-page Sunday splash.
It’s my belief that what we’re seeing here is an attempt by a growing anti-Kate Middleton faction in the Palace to brief against her in the press. The Mail is just reporting what it’s been told and drawing the desired conclusions.
The basic facts of the briefing may just creep into the lower levels of accuracy in that the Queen has undoubtedly discussed Kate many times with William and close friends. She may well have agreed that Kate needs a focus for her life, especially as she’s had to wait it out for her big moment for nearly seven years. But I’m sure HM would never have wished her views to be made public in this way or made to look as if she were packing Kate off to the Reading Job Centre.
The case of Sophie, now Countess of Wessex, is still a live one. As a career woman in the PR business, her position eventually became an untenable nightmare for the Palace and the Queen. Every time she landed a plum contract, she was accused of abusing her Royal position, as was her husband, Prince Edward, with his TV production company. They are now fulltime working Royals, bringing up a young family.
Stories like the Mail’s yesterday are going to pop up all the time as people get bored with waiting for firm news, and factions develop among courtiers and officials — they can be quite excitable at times.
As Royal Anecdotes has been saying for more than a year, the “Kate Problem” is not a problem with Kate at all, but with Prince William’s determination to drag out his marriage decision interminably. It’s beginning to look like the old political manoeuvre of “kick it into the long grass”. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if a Royal Commission is just around the corner.
The problem is a William one. He should heed the wise counsel of his grandfather, the Duke of Edinburgh, “For God’s sake marry the girl or let her go.”
John I really like your story but why do I have a feeling that soon William will make an announcement. I just feel that within weeks or a couple of months we will get some exciting news. We are getting to see William finish up his training and then he will go on to being a regular royal so I’m sure that we are getting closer to good news.
By Claudius on June 2nd, 2008 at 1:04 pm
I think so too, Claudius. I’m just trying to make sense of what appeared in yesterday’s press and show that the Kate Problem is really a William Problem.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 1:09 pm
I like your reasoning John. A question- why should the anti-Kate faction exist at all and at what level does it exist? What is her fundamental problem in the “anti” eyes?
Is this hurtful criticism of Kate going to continue until an official comment comes from the royal family debunking this stuff or would that comment then become the bigger story?
By Claudia on June 2nd, 2008 at 1:41 pm
The problem is a William one. He should heed the wise counsel of his grandfather, the Duke of Edinburgh, “For God’s sake marry the girl or let her go.”
I understand folks’ impatience with Prince William. Given the tragedy of his parent’s marriage, though, I’m inclined to think he’s wise to wait until he’s absolutely sure that Kate is the right wife.
By Aunt Pierre on June 2nd, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Oops. I meant to say parents’ marriage.
By Aunt Pierre on June 2nd, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Claudia, read our piece “The new narrative for Kate Middleton”. You’ll find a link under “Current Stories” at the top of the sidebar.
The longer this saga drags on, the more Kate will look “same old, same old”. The press likes fresh stories because their readers like them, which is why they get turned on the heads from time to time.
It’s human nature, so it needs to be defended against.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 1:54 pm
John I think you are right on the nose with with this one. This is a William problem. Only time will tellhow this will all pan out
By jackie mccoy on June 2nd, 2008 at 1:54 pm
Aunt Pierre, if he doesn’t know after seven years, he’ll never know.
Actually, I think he does and we may get a “result” in August when he leaves the Navy and before he goes back to the Army.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Hi John,
Good assessment on the weekend news. I totally agree with your last statement on it being a William problem. He’s been in this relationship now for 4/5 years maybe more. Surely that is enough time to decide whether or not that person is good enough to marry. He’s lucky to have someone as patient as Kate. I think that hopefully by the end of the year when he’s finished with the military we’ll get a bigger indication of where this relationship is heading.
By Jess on June 2nd, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Thanks John. I do read absolutely everything that exists online on KM each day and feel that I’m pretty up on it. However I am still confused. Are you saying this is the press and not at all coming from any palace intrigue? That the 24/7 press need is driving this? I understand how the press plays things as I am also a political junkie. ( I do find the time, strangely enough to actually have a life ).
By Claudia on June 2nd, 2008 at 2:16 pm
Thanks for your insightful analysis, John.
I’m remembering the reports that Prince William would like to serve in the rescue squad, perhaps for the remainder of his military service in the fall. Do you think that’s a likely possibility?
By Evelyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Claudia, I think this is being driven by both. The press needs stories and the briefers are only too happy to push their cause.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 2:20 pm
He may do, Evelyn, but the old problem may raise its head again. In the autumn/early winter the weather gets very bad around our coasts. Would they let him out in the worst of it? Doubt it.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 2:22 pm
What about working with the mountain part of the rescue, instead of flying helicopters? I’m remembering Prince William’s afternoon in early May with a rescue team in Wales that was training for mountain rescues.
By Evelyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 2:30 pm
If the Queen is so happy to push her cause that she uses some royal aide to talk to Kate through the DM I’ve lost any respect for the Queen!
I refuse to believe that any of those aides act on behalf of the Queen. I’m totally convinced that the Queen knows exactly what Kate is doing, why she is doing just that and for how long she’ll be doing it. This has been discussed by her, Charles, William and Kate. There is a plan that they follow. They will not be preesured into changing that plan. And Kathie Nicoll knows that perfectly well. I used to think she was good, now I think she is becoming a joke of a journalist.
By dagga on June 2nd, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Dagga, I agree with you. Queen Elizabeth II is far too dignified and too wise to discuss this topic with a royal aide and risk a leak to the media. Further, I do not believe she feels that Catherine Middleton needs to be employed prior to marriage. The Queen is too intelligent to go galloping after modern whims and temporary trends. I also agree with John that as Prince William delays and delays, he creates a problem and places Catherine in a very untenable position. It reminds me, most uncomfortably, of the Duke of Windsor during the years when he was Prince of Wales, and it also reminds me of Charles during the years when he dithered and dallied to the point where both the Duke of Edinburgh and Lord Mountbatten were totally out of patience with him, for good reason. I realize that it is the fashion these days for young men to be wary of commitment, but this is becoming worrisome in the case of Prince William. Let us wait and hope for better things in August.
By Gigi on June 2nd, 2008 at 3:12 pm
I see the Mail Online has dropped yesterday’s story into a text link in the Showbusiness section.
Showbiz? The Queen?
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 3:13 pm
By Gigi on June 2nd, 2008 at 3:23 pm
This is exactly what I’ve been saying all this time. Nice girl, but she needs to get a life and be productive. I think this is a Kate problem, not a William problem. Nothing is certain until she gets engaged, which with these two, who knows what will happen. Kate should be thinking of Plan B just in case.
By Marilyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 3:29 pm
It seems she’s doing creative work within her family’s businesses, Marilyn, possibly buying work too — she was a buyer with Jigsaw, remember.
At least she won’t be harrassed working from home.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 3:33 pm
One of the “problems” with the Daily Mail online is that they don’t have a section heading for the Royal Family. Many other news websites do, which makes it easier to find those stories. I was hoping that when DM restructured their website, that would be one of the changes, but it appears not.
By Evelyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Evelyn, I think the reason they don’t have a dedicated section is that the Mail pushes Royal stories right to the top — which is why we’re always quoting them.
The Sun and Telegraph have their Royal sections tucked away and you need two or three clicks to get to a story.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 3:51 pm
The question is, Is Kate queen material? She needs more than love for WIlliam to be a great queen. Does she has what it takes? A lot will be expected from her. Comments on this…
By Marilyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Zara Phillips never fails to impress royal watchers with her headwear at official functions. Now the millinery savvy of Princess Anne’s daughter has earned her the title of top female celebrity hat-wearer of the year
This is from Hello Magazine.
By Marilyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Marilyn, not everyone can be a great Queen Consort. We British are happy if they maintain dignity and don’t embarrass the Monarchy. Alas, not everyone manages even that. I think Kate will be all right.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 4:26 pm
It’s that word “celebrity” that turns me off Hello!
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 4:28 pm
Marilyn I think you need to ask yourself do any of us know who Kate is? The answer is no so you have no idea whehter she has what it takes or not. I’m pretty sure that she is aware that there are no certainties, and regardless of whether she gets engaged or married there are still no certainties. She has what appears to be a good family and she appears to have weathered a tornado (yes upgrade from storm). It really frustrates me when people come onto this website and start saying she needs to get a life when they have no clue what she is actually doing with her life. … Monday’s…….
By Jackie Mccoy on June 2nd, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Unless she proves otherwise, I will still think she is a lazy girl, who won’t be able to keep up with the rigorous job of “the firm”.
By Marilyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Well Marilyn you go ahead and waste you time doing that. You should really switch to the Daily Mail comments section. You will find other like minded people on there.
By Jackie Mccoy on June 2nd, 2008 at 4:58 pm
John you forgot to mention the courtiers Richard Kay quoted in his column (in the same paper!) who were supposedly “amused” at the idea that the Queen demanded Kate get a job. Maybe this is some internal fight between Richard Kay and Katie Nicholls and doesn’t actually have anything to do with either William or Kate.
I actually don’t see why the current situation should either be a “Kate problem” or a “William problem”. I’m sure they have a private understanding when to get married - probably after William’s military service ends. If that’s the case then Kate very well knew from the start that she won’t get a “ring” before the end of 2008 or at the latest learned that after their “reunion” in summer 2007. She therefore had about 3 years (1.5 years respectively) to find a job, had she wanted one or had the RF adviced her to get one. IMO, this is a “press problem”. The papers have once more gotten way ahead of themselves and are now covering up their own stories blaming either William or Kate. I sometimes have the feeling that the papers try to force the couple to make some sort of public outing or comment during a time of lack of news. It appears to me that the British tabloids cannot go through a week without a single story on William and Kate. And if they have no current information (like they did during the last weeks), they just make stuff like that up.
Without a doubt we’ll learn what Kate has been up to when an engagement is announced. I doubt she was just sitting at home watching TV and eating bonbons.
By Isana on June 2nd, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Another question to be asked is, who would hire Kate? If she wants to be available for William during working hours, most employers don’t flex that much. He is essentially self-employed, she probably needs to be self-employed as well so that she can flex her time. The prestige of having Prince William’s girlfriend working for you would probably be outweighed by the annoyance of dealing with the press.
She also needs a Plan B. If an engagement/marriage doesn’t happen she needs to be able to start her own life. It would be hard to find a new beau after such a public relationship.
By Cindy on June 2nd, 2008 at 5:20 pm
unfortunately for kate she’s pretty much damned if she does/damned is she doesnt…if she were to get a “regular job” she and her employers would be hounded by the press. being that until a formal engagement is announced she has no royal protection it may prove more of a hassle than whats its worth. am sure this has all been disussed between her and william. if the queen were really concerned about all this i would imagine she would have discussed this with william and some sort of suitable employment for kate would have been arranged. so she’s keeping a low profile and helping with her folks business..good for her that she has that option. think most of us here are supportive of her - those that are not - unless you’ve walked in her shoes you have no idea what you’re talking about..
By coni on June 2nd, 2008 at 5:23 pm
I think it would be well for us to remember that the person who knows Catherine Middleton the best is Prince William. Born into the Royal Family as the Heir, witness as he was to the sturm und drang of Royal life, he is the best judge of whether Catherine Middleton that she is, and I, for one, trust his opinion. As our Prince who will be King in the fullness of time, I feel he deserves our trust and our loyalty, especially on this point. Prince William must marry whom he loves, a person who will love and support him throughout the difficult years of duty and strain that characterize the monarchy. He alone can make this choice, and if Catherine Middleton is the lady of his choice, I say well done, ring the bells, chill the champagne and gather the roses!
By Gigi on June 2nd, 2008 at 5:26 pm
i’m with you Gigi…!
By coni on June 2nd, 2008 at 5:27 pm
Sorry! Somehow a few words got left out of my last post. The second and the third sentences should read “Born into the Royal Family as the Heir, witness as he was to the sturm und drang of Royal life, he is the best judge of whether Catherine Middleton is suitable to be Queen Consort. It appears as if he has decided that she is suitable, and I for one trust his opinion.” My typos will be the end of us all, mark my words!
By Gigi on June 2nd, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Gigi - am looking forward to be spread you’ll be putting out for the big day
after the debacle with his parents marriage am sure william has thought this through….
By coni on June 2nd, 2008 at 5:34 pm
I agree with you, Coni. Prince William is a thoughful, sensitive and intelligent young man, and no nuances escape him. I feel sure that he has carefully considered all pertinent factors in making his choice.
Regarding the repast for the Royal Anecdotes Gala Royal Wedding Tea for the wedding of Prince William, you are right again! I shall not spare the sugar, nor the heavy cream, nor the chocolate nor any decadence requisite for a Royal Wedding Tea!
Diet now, dear RAers, for on that joyous day, we feast and throw caution (and our waistlines) to the winds! 
By Gigi on June 2nd, 2008 at 5:57 pm
The Queen can attest to the fact that love is more important than whether others feel there might be a better candidate. I remember reading that some were not pleased with her choice of Prince Philip. The length and strength of their relationship, and his support for his wife in so many ways, is proof that even the best intentioned relatives may not see a suitor’s assets.
I, too, believe that William and Catherine have an understanding about how their future together will unfold. Her discretion and loyalty– continuing to stand by him (and stand in for him)– speaks of her suitability.
By Evelyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Isana, I’ve just caught up with the paper version of the Mail — Kay’s piece wasn’t online this morning.
I’m sure there’s a rivalry between the Mail and the Mail on Sunday, especially the respective diary editors.
I have to side with RK on this one, though.
By John on June 2nd, 2008 at 6:01 pm
The question is, Is Kate queen material?
I believe Kate has the goods to be Queen and if the next Queen Consort, Camilla, is any example, Kate has nothing to worry about.
By Arthur on June 2nd, 2008 at 6:17 pm
Arthur well said!!!
Well said also Gigi!!
By Jackie Mccoy on June 2nd, 2008 at 6:40 pm
Well, Camilla, that’s another topic well worth discussing. IF Camilla ever becomes queen, I will assume it will be a short reign. Kate’s on the other hand should be longer. Some food for thought.
By Marilyn on June 2nd, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Great article and great comments. I love the headline it just shows how ridiculous the story was!
I thoroughly agree with those who treat this story with the distain it deserves;I just don’t see the Queen getting involved in Kate’s choices and anyway I think she would understand the reasons Kate left the public work force.
The press are just annoyed because they can’t have photogenic Kate to sell papers whenever they want to.
And for those who suggest that she isn’t suitable to be Queen, in my view the quiet dignity she has displayed throughout all this the ups and the downs of the relationship and the various praise and abuse from the press says she is more than capable.
By Eliza on June 2nd, 2008 at 7:22 pm
Marilyn,
Gosh, you like Kate, don’t you? I say leave the poor girl alone. She’s probably riding out all this negative storm at her parents’ — even you have to admit that any woman who marries William will be subject to all this publicity and if Camilla can carry it off, so can Kate.
By NCKat on June 2nd, 2008 at 7:23 pm
Oh, there’s a great role model! I’m hoping that the public will bypass PC and Cams, and go for PW and CM. They’re young and will adapt easily. The former, the people will be voting republic.
By Jacqueline on June 2nd, 2008 at 8:10 pm
Jacqueline -being that the queen is in good health am sure charles and camilla’s reign wont have same longivity - one positive thing about camilla is that like kate she can keep her mouth shut which in any circle is rare these days …
By coni on June 2nd, 2008 at 9:23 pm
That is very true Jacqueline. I just found this new news artical with video. Even though I don’t believe that the Queen would say this in public, listen to what Katie Nicholls is saying.
http://tinyurl.com/5zlmbn
By Rman on June 2nd, 2008 at 9:34 pm
Coni as much as I don’t like Camilla you have a very good point!!
By Jackie Mccoy on June 2nd, 2008 at 9:52 pm
its unfortunate that charles couldnt have married camilla in the first place, then of course we wouldnt have had diana, william and harry - but then again perhaps diana would have been in a happier marriage..who knows…
By coni on June 2nd, 2008 at 10:03 pm
I personally think that Camilla has done a wonderful job since her marriage and when the time comes I am sure she will be a wonderful Queen Consort to Charles. She does her job with little drama and fuss which is exactly as it should be and those that she has met while doing it have had only good things to say about her.
As for Katie Nicholls, she seems to be on her own with this, none of her fellow journalists are agreeing with her - even within The Mail franchise it seems.
By Ash on June 2nd, 2008 at 10:08 pm
I think if they expect her to work, they should at least afford her some protection. They don’t go without their bodyguards, and Kate is probably more sought after than them . We all witnessed the nightmare she dealt with when she was working at Jigsaw. It seems to be a no win situation for Kate. I think she is handling it all well. If she is working at her family’s business at least she is safe and not subjected to the hounding paparazzi daily.
By maddie on June 2nd, 2008 at 10:21 pm
Camilla has always loved Charles and knows how to handle him, granted. Keeping her mouth shut, a good quality for sure. Some say she’s lazy, griping at all the work she has to do. I know I’m going to get angry words, but I’m sure we’ve all read these, too. What I’m saying is, shouldn’t she be more than she is? To be a Queen consort?
By Jacqueline on June 2nd, 2008 at 10:55 pm
jacqueline - i dont really follow camilla but am sure whatever her schedule of “work” is am sure that this has all been worked out with charles - who knows what he may have worked out with her in terms of “royal duties” also i believe she’s recently become a grandmother so i would imagine she’s involved with her own family..i’ve never been a big fan of camilla’s but like all of these relationships one just doesnt know what goes on behind closed doors..also, i thought she did do some sort of charity work….am i wrong on that??
By coni on June 2nd, 2008 at 11:02 pm
What time is William’s press conference. I say ABC news and they reported on William’s deployment. They said that it would end in August. Then he would go on holiday possibly with Kate. They mentioned possible time for engagement.
By kat on June 3rd, 2008 at 12:39 am
What is wrong with people? If you surf all the royal sites there are so many anti Kate people it’s pathetic. First of all no one has heard her speak so what does anyone know about her?. As far as I can see if she is working for her parents SHE HAS A JOB and one that affords her privacy the problem is it is not the fancy job the media wants and it makes her look like the hate this term waity kaity. The longer William drags out his intentions many including the courtiers are going to say negative things to the press to make money.
Kate is in a very unenviable position at this point. She is a private person in a very public relationship. No one knows what kind of Princess or Queen Consort she could or will be. The Queens parents were not supposed to sit on the throne and The Duke of Windsor was popular as POW but was not cut out to be King and the shy Duke of York who one really did not know turned out to be a marvelous King who held the affection of the people during the war. I wonder what this so called press conference is about? Maybe they will finally announce an engagement. At the very least these jealous and pathetic people may be silenced.
By Trudie on June 3rd, 2008 at 1:53 am
Amen Trudie. I’m soooo excited! Gigi, ready the tea pots, I’ll make the scones, but no currents, I’m a purest.
By Jacqueline on June 3rd, 2008 at 2:12 am
I agree with you Trudie. I think Catherine has all the elegance, grace and strength to withstand the pressure now and in the future. It takes a warm heart to have such a ready genuine smile as hers. She will be a marvelous public figure and one we will all be proud of.
By Dot on June 3rd, 2008 at 2:15 am
Let me add my voice to yours. I could not agree with you more!
When Kate looks at Prince William she just glows with happiness. I don’t get it. Wouldn’t it be better to see how Catherine is as a royal before condemming her? Isn’t what everyone wants for William to love the woman who he is choosing to spend the rest of his life? Kate is that woman. The bottom line is that no one who is talking against her really knows who she is. They haven’t met her, talked with her, gotten to know her. The problem is that people haven’t been seeing her. They don’t know what she is doing. So they assume that she is doing nothing which is the furtherest thing from the truth. As for what is said about the Queen, I don’t think that any Grandmother would say anything that would get into the publiv view that would embarrass her grandson.
From what I can see, she is a very private woman who holds her
loyalty in high regard. If she was concerned she would not leak it to the outside. Discussions would be held in private. Finally, I do wish that an official statement is made.He needs to take responsibilty for protecting her reputation.
By kat on June 3rd, 2008 at 2:49 am
Trudie, tomorrow’s press conference is about Prince William beginning his secondment with the Royal Navy. I don’t expect there will be any news about Catherine.
By Evelyn on June 3rd, 2008 at 2:57 am
Unfortunatly Evelyn that is true I have seen the stories. It really bites. But sooner or later he has to get it together for Kates sake and clarify her position. How she always manages a smile despite the hateful stuff printed is beyond me. I would be screaming you don’t know me!!!! And at the very least William could say something positive without giving anything away. I hope his engagement interview is better than what his father had to say especially that famous line “Whatever in Love means”.
By Trudie on June 3rd, 2008 at 11:48 am
Thanks for the link, Rman.
Listening to that story gave me a new perspective on the Catherine situation. Katie Nicholl points out that Catherine was offered a short-term position with Mario Testino, but turned it down, as she wanted to be available to be with Prince William on when he had free weekends from the RAF. Perhaps the Queen is a bit concerned that, once married, Catherine will just want to follow along at all of Prince William’s royal engagements, rather than representing The Firm on her own.
That doesn’t change my thoughts on all the complications we’ve discussed previously– security, paparazzi, employer issues, etc. But I can see that it would be important for Catherine to show that she has the confidence and ability to go off and “work” on her own.
By Evelyn on June 3rd, 2008 at 2:22 pm
This story is really getting out of hand. Are we now vetting and vetoing Kate’s job offers? There may have been a very good reason she didn’t go to New York — security etc. Or maybe Mario Testino’s portraiture work didn’t do much for her interest in abstract art photography.
If the story is based on the Testino case, it’s very thin and could be interpreted many ways. Even so, I wouldn’t expect the Queen to be openly commenting on it. It still sounds like a briefing against Kate to me.
By John on June 3rd, 2008 at 2:36 pm
I agree with you, John. Further, my recollection is that the Palace only comments in extreme circumstances. I do not think that this absurd story, while annoying, is an extreme circumstance.
By Gigi on June 3rd, 2008 at 4:08 pm
I may be mistaken but didn’t Mario Testino say when asked that Kate was not going to be working for him and that there had been no offer for Kate to come work for him and also, if I am again not mistaken, wasn’t this statement of his first published in the Daily Mail. It would seem that every new article in The Mail is a direct contradiction of a previous article they have published….what on earth is going on with their editors.
In regards to the possibility that this “story” may have come for those who don’t like Kate within the palace, well they may want to rethink their strategy. Most of the comments I have seen on this, besides the usual suspects, have been that The Queen needs to mind her own business and the press need to leave Kate alone. I think that they will find it difficult to turn the average person against Kate. Kate has her big fans and her big haters but it is the opinion those who don’t spend their time searching the Internet for everything printed on her that will really matter and to the majority of them she is a nice, quite, discreet girl who goes about her life minding her own business while all the time being hounded by the media. Does the Palace really want to be seen as being mean to another innocent girl? It didn’t work out too well for them the last time!
By Ash on June 3rd, 2008 at 6:04 pm
I have to agree Ash that eveyone needs to mind their own business regarding Kate/Catherine. Ok so maybe working for her parents is only a few hours a day or week it is still a job. I have a suggestion for Kate perhaps she should raise her profile doing volunteer work for various charities in a way it worked for Camilla.
By Trudie on June 3rd, 2008 at 6:15 pm
Just watched Katie Nicholl’s interview with CBS.
I’m sure the Queen has views on Kate Middleton, but I think the tone of this “scoop” feels wrong. It still seems to me to be a briefing from the anti-Kate faction at the Palace. Naturally, if a journalist has a front-page article in a Sunday newspaper, they have to stand by the story or their credibility is shot.
Of course, if the Queen is part of the anti-Kate brigade that would be a powerful signal. But I just don’t see it. Kate would not have been invited to the Wings ceremony were that true.
I believe that Katie, who’s a very good media and celebrity journalist, has been taken for a ride. Make no mistake, Kate has many enemies among the daughters of minor aristocrats and Royal hangers on, but nothing suggests she has lost the confidence of senior Royals, including William.
The Queen does not do this kind of exposure. If Kate is in such hot water at the Palace, she would have been long gone by now. There’s no way she can manufacture a “career” in time for a wedding next year.
By John on June 3rd, 2008 at 8:44 pm
John I have to agree with your assessment this has to be carping from the minor hangers on dripping with jealously. Besides that do they have a clock watcher at Party Pieces to know exactly how many hours she works there is more to the business then just a website and taking pictures. But as I have said before William has dragged this on for too long. If I were a potential employer I wouldn’t hire her as long as she was with William I doubt any employer would put up with the media hounding and disruptions they cause. Kate is in a very unenviable position.
By Trudie on June 3rd, 2008 at 10:24 pm
It will be interesting to see if they are at the Boxing Ball this weekend. Another interesting time is the Garter ceromony and Williams’ birthday. If William has class on land for the next 3 weeks he could be at all three events. He needs to have Kate at as many if not all of them. That would show the public how he feels about her. Any one of them would be good. I am wanting him to squash rumors of those who would actually want there to be a parting of the ways
By kat on June 4th, 2008 at 2:30 am
Kat the one event he has to be at is the Garter ceremony. I just hope he has the brains and guts to bring Kate/ Catherine as a sign to all those jealous and pathetic that yes SHE IS NON NEGOTIABLE and I will marry her one day. To include her in this important ceremony would speak volumes without a word spoken.
By Trudie on June 4th, 2008 at 2:51 am
I must say I feel so sorry for Catherine to be in such position. Even if this report were untrue, the fact alone that the queen’s name is attached to articles is damaging her reputation significantly. I don’t think she deserves it.
It’s easy for people to scream “get a job” or “get a life,” but they don’t see how difficult it is for someone like her. It’s sad seeing old pictures of her — innocent out of school — cycling to the gym, riding public transport, sitting on the grass & playing fetch with her dog during William’s polo matches. Now, she can’t even leave the freaking pavillion without fearing photographers! She has to be in hiding half her life. And yet people accuse her of courting the press?… Only crazy people would like a life like that. I’m sure if she didn’t care enough for William, she’d have moved on. After all, she’s educated, rich, with good connections.
Now that they don’t see her leaving for work everyday like she did with Jigsaw, they accuse her of laziness and call her Waity Katie… Just because we don’t know what someone’s doing in private doesn’t mean we can accuse her of lounging around all day. If I were Catherine, I’d work for my family too. I’d be protected, would have flexible hours and wouldn’t have to worry about photographers chasing me day and night.
***sighing*** it’s not easy to be a royal girlfriend. And a royal wife isn’t much better. I hope she has the strength to go through this. Sometimes I ask, is William worth it?… must be love…
Sorry for the rant. I have a soft spot for underdogs and people being bullied.
By frands on June 4th, 2008 at 5:19 am
What I think is sad is that people don’t seem to have anything better to do than to put someone down that they know nothing about. No one knows what is going on behind the scenes with Catherine. She really is in a Catch 22 situation. On the one hand she is dating William so it is thought that she should act one way. However those same people point out that she should not expect protection or anything else beause she has no official royal status. She really can’t win. In many respects, the article is having negative effects on the royal family. Instead of standing up for her they remain silent. That can’t be helpful for the RF’s image. I understand why an engagement wasn’ announced. He will be away. Once they are official she will need william to be close and very much in the picture. However, if he takes her somewhere like the Garter ceromony, it will make the statement that they truly are very much together.
By kat on June 4th, 2008 at 6:23 am
Also, taking Kate to the Garter ceremony would show there’s no tension between her and the Queen. A generous gesture by HM would scotch all the rumours currently flying around.
By John on June 4th, 2008 at 9:05 am
Frands, this idea that everyone should get a “proper job” grates on me. Jonathan Ross is paid £18m ($36m) by the BBC for hosting a foul-mouthed chat show late on Friday night. Is that a proper job?
All sorts of people do weird things now. I wonder how it would go down if Kate took to selling mortgages to sub-prime clients?
She can’t win.
Many people live their lives in a torrent of resentment and feel free to instruct everyone else on how to be just like them.
Kate should heed the wise words of Abraham Lincoln : You can please some of the people …..
By John on June 4th, 2008 at 9:16 am
A poll in the Mail that’s been running for three days on the question, “Should Kate marry Prince William?”, currently shows 53pc saying No and only 47pc Yes.
That’s is a complete turnaround from opinion a year ago. It reinforces our argument that the long wait is damaging Kate’s reputation.
By John on June 4th, 2008 at 9:28 am
John, I see the poll more as sayinging Kate do not marry into the RF. My interprutation is that her life won’t be her own, and that marrying a royal is just not worth it. Unless you are truly in love with William (as Kate is), I have read that some people are telling her to run for the hills away from that life.
By kat on June 4th, 2008 at 10:25 am
This story does seem to be gaining some ground….whether true or not. I know how I feel about my partner and I would protect them at all cost and them myself also. Is PW protecting Catherine? Some might say yes and some might say no.
PW and Catherine do seem to be in a damned if they do damned if they don’t situation.
PW does need to clarify this situation sooner rather than later as I think it is damaging them both.
By james on June 4th, 2008 at 10:30 am
Polls can be made to say anything, John. Professional pollsters are selling something and numbers can be manipulated and frequently are. Further, I doubt very much if Prince William will choose a lady to marry based on a poll. This is just another example of the media stoking the fires. They really are the limit!
By Gigi on June 4th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Since this tread is about Catherine, I’ll post this question here…
A while back before I found this site, I saw an article that said that she was being “groomed.” What does that mean specifically and is it true?
Also, if she is being groomed, would that mean that she has trusted people from whom she can get advice while William is training? (Assuming that she can’t pick up the phone and call him any time.)
I just feel so bad for her that she is being set out to dry so to speak. I understand that the RF does not want to dignify clueless ramblings of bored or frustrated people making crazy statements, however, is Catherine getting support from them in any way? Or is she hiding so as not to have to deal with this alone? I WOULD BE! Not that anyone cares what I do
By Jules on June 4th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
I kind of agree with you both John and Gigi. I think Kate’s reputation is being damaged by the day. Even if it is just media hyped up stories people don’t always know what to believe and some people will believe everything they read. It must be awful for her family to have to see nasty stories splashed across the tabloids by the week which are not necessary and could be avoided. I also agree that number can be manipulated and that William won’t choose his bride based on a poll. However I certaintly do not want William to end up like Prince Albert of Monaco who has been through a stream of women and although he is currently with Charlene Wittstock he still does not look as though he wants to settle down and he is 50. Kate deserves to be treated better than that and her position made official she shouldn’t have to spend her life hiding these are her prime years also and they are being to an extend dare I say it wasted I am going to assume due to Prince William not pulling the trigger. I say that because I assume that if he wanted it to happen tomorrow it would protocol or not. So I guess the question remains how long is Kate willing to continue to wait???
By Jackie Mccoy on June 4th, 2008 at 10:19 pm
I hear you Jackie but I truly think Catherine will wait for him because she is in love with him and they seem to have an understanding between them. “Once I’m done with my training and get that out of the way, I will marry you.” I feel that’s what he’s doing. She put too many years into this relationship to just backout. Their breakup last year and their fast makeup, lets us all know that they are in this for good. I think their love for each other and the support that they have from their family and friends, help them face the endless made up stories about them and the media attention. And they have Royal Anecdotes behind them. The same goes for Harry & Chelsy.
By Claudius on June 4th, 2008 at 11:36 pm
I also think Catherine is waiting for William because she truly cares for him. And although I’m not as optimistic as some that an engagement will happen very soon, I believe that there’s an understanding and a target date at this point. Question is: what makes everyone think Catherine’s in a hurry to get married? Once an engagement is announced, what little left of her privacy will be gone forever. Who’d want to look forward to that? I know any girl who’s been with her man for 4-5 years may want to settle down, but William isn’t just any other man…
By frands on June 5th, 2008 at 1:37 am
For sure Claudius I believe that Kate does love him and I hope that everything works out in the end.
By jackie Mccoy on June 5th, 2008 at 3:25 am
Kate is invited if William invites her. And I doubt the Queen would publicly show dislike for her at such an event, even if she didn’t really like Kate.
By leogirl on June 7th, 2008 at 12:10 am