Some Royal observers are claiming that there appears to be another “turf war” between the rival courts and press offices of Buckingham Palace and Clarence House. This is an old story tracing back to the time of Diana, Princess of Wales, when the rival court was St James’s Palace.

Now it centres on the inexperienced figure of Kate Middleton, who must wonder why so much spite and bitterness is coming her way, not only from teenagers with a crush on her boyfriend, but from Palace sources.

Today’s little local difficulty is a symptom of a debate going on among some Palace courtiers, including close friends of the Queen. To understand it, you have to know something about the ancient traditions of Royalty.

Not so very long ago, it was regarded as a step down in Royalness for one parent to lack a Royal pedigree, even if the other was a Monarch.

For example, Prince Philip’s parents were both Royal, but the Queen’s were a King and an Earl’s daughter (a commoner). Prince William has the same “diluting” factor in his parentage, deriving from Diana, another Earl’s daughter.

While that may not matter a fig these days, the Middletons represent an even further diminution in Royal connections, including a link to a northern coalmining family on Kate’s mother’s side.

Many of the companions and friends of the Queen are much grander than she is in their personal attitudes and opinions. Some are known to be seething that William should even consider such a match, especially if they have an eligible daughter or granddaughter waiting in the wings.

Some have spoken to the press — Richard Kay has put it on record that he has been approached by a “close friend of the Queen” with anti-Kate sentiments.

It would be disingenuous to imagine that the Royal Family have not been affected by this febrile atmosphere, and even had doubts of their own.

The fact that William has stuck with Kate throughout all this is a good measure of his character. He has poignant memories of the long, vicious breakup of his parent’s marriage, which would add to his cautious approach to all things matrimonial.

I’ve written before that I think his, and Kate’s, lives would have been easier had he made his intentions clearer some time ago. Prince Philip’s advice, “Marry the girl or let her go,” was wise counsel.

However, William has used actions rather than statements to reveal his hand. Every invitation to a major Royal event for Kate speaks louder than words. That some people refuse to see that is a reflection on their own pig-headedness — or point-blank opposition to the match.

Royal Anecdotes received a strong tip some months ago that plans were being made for an announcement towards the end of William’s military training. It seemed good timing then, as it does now.

Perhaps while the Prince was yomping across wintry Dartmoor with a 60lb pack on his back, he saw Kate’s exposed predicament as good training for her future role. If she could survive that, she can come through anything.

One thing’s for sure, the final decision will emerge from as complex a soup of opinion, precedent, prejudice and resentment as any young couple have ever endured. It will truly be the road least travelled.

It falls to us here on this Royalist website to give them both the benefit of the doubt.

Update: 2.30 BST Buckingham Palace has denied reports in this morning’s London Evening Standard that Prince Philip has prostate cancer. They also denied the Standard’s earlier claim that he had a heart condition.

The BBC’s Royal Editor, Nicholas Witchell, who has just gone to air after a long delay over the story, was distinctly cagey in his language. He said the Palace told him the claims were untrue “as far as they knew.”

Prince Philip, 87, was said to be continuing with his duties after the Evening Standard claimed that tests confirmed he is suffering from prostate cancer.

The tests were said to have been carried out in April, presumably during his stay in hospital for a chest infection. Aides insist he is in “robust health” and will carry on with his duties, despite the heart condition for which he takes daily medication.

The aide reportedly continued, “Despite his heart problems and the cancer, Philip’s in robust health for a man of his age and is determined to plough on. He’s mentally very sharp and he’s always said he’ll continue carrying out his royal duties until he’s physically immobile.

“He is utterly dedicated to the Queen and this country and his role as the effective managing director of the Firm is not in question.”

Yesterday, we reported that the Queen had cleared her diary for the remainder of the Balmoral holiday. The reason given was that Gordon Brown may resign at any moment.

Royal Anecdotes wishes Prince Philip the best of health. We understand this condition is normal in men of his age and has a slow progression rate. In most cases it does not require invasive treatment.

Prince William was well supported at his investiture as the 1000th Knight Companion of the Garter since 1348 at Windsor today.

Prince William with his father and Camilla at the Garter event

Senior Garter Knights, Prince Charles and Prince Philip (his father and grandfather), were his official supporters as the Queen draped the historic and prestigious Garter robes around him in St. George’s Chapel.

Prince Harry, Kate Middleton and Camilla at Windsor today

In the congregation were Kate Middleton his more-than-a-girlfriend, and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Although Kate outshone all others as usual, this time William was the centre of attention in his floridly magnificent medieval robes and flourish of a hat.

The ancient company (literally in many cases) made its way slowly in solemn procession from the Chapel for about a quarter of a mile, heavily guarded by police and elements of the Household Cavalry.

It is a shame that the public are not allowed to watch the service and investiture on television. At least Hello! magazine didn’t have the monopoly this time.

Perhaps the Way Forward Group could consider opening this splendid event to public view at its next meeting?

President Bush and his wife, Laura, have arrived at Windsor Castle for afternoon tea with the Queen.

Marine 1, the Presidential helicopter, lands at Windsor Castle

The visit is the final leg of the European tour to mark the ending of George Bush’s term as President of the United States.

Tonight they will dine with Prime Minister Gordon Brown at 10 Downing Street in London.

President Bush and First Lady greeted at Windsor Castle

The Presidential couple will spend a day and a half in Britain, mainly saying their goodbyes but also fitting in some business meetings too, especially with Brown.