Royal Insight Forum

QuoteThe Duchess of Cambridge is expected to visit Malta in connection with the 50th anniversary of Malta's Independence.

The Sunday Times of Malta in informed that Kate Middleton is expected to be the guest of honour as Malta marks its Golden Jubilee since gaining independence on September 21, 1964. The British High Commission said no decision had yet been taken.

Kate Middleton expected in Malta - timesofmalta.com (http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20140706/local/kate-middleton-expected-in-malta.526462)

Cindy

It takes the media a while to work out that people sometimes change their name upon marriage and she's not Kate Middleton any more.  I think they've just about got it with Camilla now, and you rarely hear the Parker Bowles bit any more.

Quote from: cinrit on July 06, 2014, 01:12:09 PM

QuoteThe Duchess of Cambridge is expected to visit Malta in connection with the 50th anniversary of Malta's Independence.

The Sunday Times of Malta in informed that Kate Middleton is expected to be the guest of honour as Malta marks its Golden Jubilee since gaining independence on September 21, 1964. The British High Commission said no decision had yet been taken.

Kate Middleton expected in Malta - timesofmalta.com (http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20140706/local/kate-middleton-expected-in-malta.526462)

Cindy

I hope this is true. It would be brilliant for the Duchess and a great coup for Malta

This would be her first foreign trip alone.

Has any of the spouses represented in a foreign trip capacity alone? If not, then the BRF is changing.

Sophie and Camilla have. I think the BRF is finally admitting that Kate is a woman in her 30s and working shouldn't be such a task for her but a duty she should just get on with...

^^ And yet... she's got a clear calendar for the next three weeks.

Let's face it, one or two non-gala engagements a month is about as adult as they can force her to be.   :happy15:

Quote from: Inge Jones on July 06, 2014, 01:29:14 PM
It takes the media a while to work out that people sometimes change their name upon marriage and she's not Kate Middleton any more.  I think they've just about got it with Camilla now, and you rarely hear the Parker Bowles bit any more.

They shouldn't do it but the media tends to call the royal ladies what they are est known as. Camilla was Camilla Parker Bowles for th majority of her time in the spotlight and the same for Kate; it's hard to break the habit especially when the readers know them by these names. Didn't they also mess up with Diana by calling her Princess Diana when she was actually Princess Charles?

They called her Lady Diana for a long time after she got married actually.  But at least it wasn't "Diana Spencer"

I don't think people even knew that Diana had a surname, or at least never gave it thought.  She was "Lady Di" from the beginning.  She appeared on the scene so fast, we had trouble keeping up with her even being with Charles.

Cindy

Good for her, I think Camilla went to France alone last year as well.

Quote from: wannable on July 06, 2014, 03:09:57 PM
This would be her first foreign trip alone.

Has any of the spouses represented in a foreign trip capacity alone? If not, then the BRF is changing.

Diana's first was Princess Grace's funeral. :(

I think this is good news - it is time for her to accept these sorts of duties and she certainly had plenty of experience in AUS?NZ to prepare her.
Just wear a pencil skirt and avoid windy helos!

Hope that the Malta committee will share the program for her visit in the near future.

I vote pant suit Cate, I always look at Queen Letizia and think she just does it right. If Kate at least tries maybe we can have a foreign tour without any unwanted 'incidents'.

Quote from: Limabeany on July 06, 2014, 03:45:05 PM
Sophie and Camilla have. I think the BRF is finally admitting that Kate is a woman in her 30s and working shouldn't be such a task for her but a duty she should just get on with...

It is a task for her . I dont think she will be working hard even 10 years after 'settling' in the brf , she is either going to divorce and live in one of the palaces or go into a nervous break down because I dont see her working as hard as the queen or sophie or diana  :notamused:

^^^ ... and don't forget Harry

Certain people are saying kate is perfect for this visit , she is a great example of what they escaped from ,separated and got independence , so they wouldn't have to look up to lazy kate as their rep.
As someone who comes from a country that was a former British colony , I am glad we did get rid of those parasites when we did , ... God given title lol  <_<

I have to say, for all her other flaws I am critical of, I am not seeing the laziness about royal duties.  I think even if she wanted to do more, she or her advisers would be very sensitive about annoying William by showing him up.

Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on July 06, 2014, 01:44:08 PM

Quote from: cinrit on July 06, 2014, 01:12:09 PM

QuoteThe Duchess of Cambridge is expected to visit Malta in connection with the 50th anniversary of Malta's Independence.

The Sunday Times of Malta in informed that Kate Middleton is expected to be the guest of honour as Malta marks its Golden Jubilee since gaining independence on September 21, 1964. The British High Commission said no decision had yet been taken.

Kate Middleton expected in Malta - timesofmalta.com (http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20140706/local/kate-middleton-expected-in-malta.526462)

Cindy

I hope this is true. It would be brilliant for the Duchess and a great coup for Malta

:thumbsup: Great news!

Quote from: Inge Jones on July 07, 2014, 07:44:15 AM
I have to say, for all her other flaws I am critical of, I am not seeing the laziness about royal duties.  I think even if she wanted to do more, she or her advisers would be very sensitive about annoying William by showing him up.

I doubt William has the hangups his father has. He has not displayed any jealousy of his wife. Charles OTOH was jealous of Diana. In William and Kate's case I do think they are not balls of fire in the work department.

I hope she acts normal on this visit because the claws are out and it doesn't look pretty , another Marilyn moment wont be received well , I wonder if they will interview her like they did in Denmark , that will be entertaining to watch  :hehe: and no william to help .

^^^ I expect smiles, handshakes, a short speech and a reception of some sort. I can safely predict that an adorable tot will execute a wobbly curtsey and hand HRH a bouquet of flowers.  :wink:

Yes, TLLK, the usual. Add some silly,on cue, quips  about her baby and  hubby.

Routine  as far as this goes.   Outfit . Very pretty. Another plus for Alexander McQueen  or the two other Brit designer  houses she showcases. They have received a  glutonny of riches  from her  but the wealth  is not shared to the others. Oh well.

She will do well. She will look great. YES, I THINK NOW ATLASt, QEII, TPTB, whoever  put their foots down about the  dress fly ups.  The bottom  pics  are  to live forever  on line.


This is still, an easy  day trip for the  PK, PC, DofCam, whatever her name.

British Royals (http://www.britishroyals.info/)

Kate Middleton expected in Malta - timesofmalta.com (http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20140706/local/kate-middleton-expected-in-malta.526462)

 So this is a joint event and not a solo one for her?

[mod]I have merged this thread to here [/mod]

QuoteAfter taking one of the shortest maternity leaves in royal history, the Duchess of Cambridge is planning to carry out her first solo overseas tour.

According to reports, Kate will fly to Malta to commemorate 50 years of the island's independence in September.

While a source at Kensington Palace tells Royal Watch, "It's too early for an announcement," the latter part of the month has apparently been earmarked for the trip.

More: Kate Middleton is Taking a Solo Trip to Malta this September | Vanity Fair (http://www.vanityfair.com/online/daily/2014/07/kate-middleton-malta-september?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)

I did not expect to see her doing a solo overseas trip so soon.  I would say that's a vote of confidence from the firm.

She is hardly signing a Peace Treaty! It's nothing more than a smile and wave day out...but in a different Country.  Things can only get better - Last time she was abroad, she flashed us her arse.

I'm of the belief she has been told to do some work.   Apparently, William will be too busy? 

QuoteEmily Andrews @byEmilyAndrews  ·  9h

And it'll just be Kate going to Malta in Sept for her first solo foreign trip -William'll be too busy with his new full-time job...

:orchid:

We aren't at war with Malta so no need to sign a peace treaty. Although putting one's signature on an already prepared document is much easier than doing this solo tour.

I can't wait for the Mail Online's wall-to-wall coverage.

Well I know that PofP.  No need to take my posts so literally.... :high5:

Wall to wall coverage?  How very hopeful of you!  She hardly ever makes front pages.  And you know it  :love6:  Bored of her already.......maybe?  Can't say I blame the Editors - all we ever get from her is the same old, same old....mouth open, flicking of the hair....blah, blah....

QuoteAlthough putting one's signature on an already prepared document is much easier than doing this solo tour

.This is not a "tour"...why would you say that? 

During a 19 day tour of down under they were on the front page of the Daily Mail 10 times with 3 souvenir additions. You know that  :love6:

No, they were not.  George was (granted William or Kate were holding him).  And You know that too. 

The family was. There was no George during their tour of Canada or the Solomon Islands and they were front page news. You can't stop it SC

Quote from: SophieChloe on July 11, 2014, 05:56:04 PM
Well I know that PofP.  No need to take my posts so literally.... :high5:

Wall to wall coverage?  How very hopeful of you!  She hardly ever makes front pages.  And you know it  :love6:  Bored of her already.......maybe?  Can't say I blame the Editors - all we ever get from her is the same old, same old....mouth open, flicking of the hair....blah, blah....

QuoteAlthough putting one's signature on an already prepared document is much easier than doing this solo tour

.This is not a "tour"...why would you say that?

Because she is a very boring woman /public figure  :orchid: I dont know how people follow her constantly like you get news once in 3 months and her fashion is all there is , which btw she can do better imo .

Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on July 11, 2014, 06:05:41 PM
The family was. There was no George during their tour of Canada or the Solomon Islands and they were front page news. You can't stop it SC

Oh I see, you are referring to an old tour.....Old news.....Jeez move on. :orchid:   When they were young and fresh...that boat has long since sailed....when the excuses came in bucket-loads ....and still the lazy pair are still grabbing.   

I'm not trying to "stop it".... it has already come to a halt.   

George is the future and you know it.  Middleton and William are boring. 

This seems like a silly thing to argue about.  Kate obviously attracts a lot of media attention.  If you think she *shouldn't* attract media attention, that's one thing.  But to say she *doesn't* get a lot of media attention makes it sound like you're ignoring facts you don't like.

To use myself as an example, I think the flurry of stories the past few weeks complaining about W&K's spending were unfair and based on a lot of misinformation.  But I don't deny that a lot of those types of stories were published.  They were. 

We are not "arguing" we are discussing.... :hug:  :shrug:


All I'm discussing, Canuck, is Kate is not devoted to anything...this is all PR.  I suggest she bog off back to Middleton Manor.  Where ,according to Pippa they spend most weekends with George.   

yes of course she gets lots of media attention certainly in the UK.  Of course - much less in the US but then again she does not live in the US.  I'd say though that the claims made for her status in the world ("international style icon") are ridiculously exaggerated.  I still would guess that they are the best known of the younger royals from around the world.  It does seem to me though that she is not at all well known for her humanitarian efforts.  Will perhaps has some profile re: his illegal poaching campaigns but Kate has no yet developed any particular image except for her clothes.

 :goodpost: Cate , even  people who have worked in fashion and are well known say her style status is exaggerated , I wont go into that but yeah she's not all that famous outside the UK and unless your a royal watcher you wouldnt know what was happening with her as in whatever  the latest kate news is .
People dont care she isnt famous for any other reason than marriage and kate could change that but so far she hasn't

 ^  Cate1949 :notworthy: :goodpost: :notworthy:

Luckily all of us here at RIF follow her every move or at least comment on it so she does generate interest.

This Malta thread is really coming alive today

I wouldnt mind if she was only known for her clothes and she supported young up and coming designers , and took a more serious role within the fashion industry but she barely recognises the importance of her so called " style status " she can do so much and I wouldnt care if fashion was all she was  known for but she doesnt even do that  :windsor1: so like I said shes boring and there is little to like .
The saddest part is that even the critics are bored , when I used to talk about her clothes or say anything it was because I cared and felt eventually she would get it and wow everyone but she wont and has no interest to do so so its just that people do not care .....

Oh please.  The rest of the media are long since bored of her.   Even the fortune her and William spent of TP money died a death. 

As for this Malta trip...it's all cobblers, very expensive, cobblers.   Will she be making a speech?  Better get practicing now. 

Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on July 11, 2014, 05:48:38 PM
We aren't at war with Malta so no need to sign a peace treaty. Although putting one's signature on an already prepared document is much easier than doing this solo tour.

I can't wait for the Mail Online's wall-to-wall coverage.

She's going  to be cutting a ribbon to begin an island wide  search for the Maltese Falcon. Winners receive a lifetime supply of (wait for it...) CHOCOLATE :happy17: :happy20: :yesss: MALTAED MILK BALLS!!!!

Quote from: cate1949 on July 11, 2014, 07:13:48 PM
yes of course she gets lots of media attention certainly in the UK.  Of course - much less in the US but then again she does not live in the US.  I'd say though that the claims made for her status in the world ("international style icon") are ridiculously exaggerated.  I still would guess that they are the best known of the younger royals from around the world.  It does seem to me though that she is not at all well known for her humanitarian efforts.  Will perhaps has some profile re: his illegal poaching campaigns but Kate has no yet developed any particular image except for her clothes.

:goodpost:  I'll give her more time to get that kind of humanitarian profile under her belt. I do think she is behind though and should do more in that vein.


^Malted milk balls :censored2:   Surely she'll be doing something serious? That concept seems kind of fluff to me. Maybe it's a softball for her first time out alone?

Anything for candy!!!!! :happy15: (I did take a few imaginative turns with the Malta trip itinerary.)

TBH haven't heard or read anything official regarding the trip's agenda.

I'm interested to see how long she'll be there for, and how many events she'll do, and what type of events.  And it will be interesting to see if they send William on a solo tour as well in the near future.

QuoteKate Middleton to do First Solor Royal Tour in Malta

Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton is set to embark on her first-ever solo royal tour this September, US Weekly has reported.

Beginning late September, Prince William's wife will spend two days on tour in Malta to commemorate 50 years of the island's independence.

"She's really nervous but excited about stepping out by herself," a Middleton family source told US. Adding, "The trip will focus on some of the causes that connect with her beliefs and patronages."

The Duchess will no doubt want to speak with Her Majesty ahead of the visit. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh spent the first two years of their married lives together on the island in 1949 while Prince Philip served as a naval officer. The Queen apparently loved her time there and was warmly welcomed by the local people.

The decision to send Kate overseas without William is a clear indication that senior courtiers consider her very capable of conducting official duties without the support of her husband.

More: http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2014-07-12/news/kate-middleton-to-do-first-solo-royal-tour-in-malta-5812682759/#prettyPhoto

Cindy

Oh heck no. Walking down that aisle w/o falling would be bad enough for me, going on a solo tour would be terrifying. I would stay stuck to William for a decade before I went solo.
I don't know the history but I would think because it is just her it wouldn't be as long as her other tours. And I wonder who will get to be with George, staying with Daddy or going with mommy. I suspect she will take George, i can just hear the media out cry if she left him even if it is with his father.

QuoteThe Duchess of Cambridge will visit Malta on 20th and 21st September this year at the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Malta's independence, the Palace has announced.

In her first solo overseas tour, Kate will visit the island – which gained independence from the United Kingdom on 21st September 1964 – on behalf of The Queen who last visited in 2007

More: Kate?s visit to Malta confirmed by Palace (http://royalcentral.co.uk/cambridges/kates-visit-to-malta-confirmed-by-palace-34807)

From Twitter:

Clarence House @ClarenceHouse  ·  2h
The Duchess of Cambridge's visit will mark the 50th anniversary of Malta's independence.

Clarence House @ClarenceHouse  ·  2h
The Duchess of Cambridge will visit Malta on 20th and 21st September 2014   
on behalf of The Queen.

Cindy

That's great news she's on her first oversea solo tour. She'll be fine, she's much better when she's not accompanied by William. Hopefully, this solo appearance would be the first of many. I have not been happy with either her or William lately. Let's just hope they have heard the public and are progressing towards some changes now.

QuoteGovernment confirms presence of Princess Kate for 50th anniversary celebrations of Independence in September

Princess Kate will be visiting Malta in September for the country's Independence celebrations.

In a statement government said that the Duchess of Cambridge will visit Malta on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September 2014 to represent Her Majesty The Queen on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Malta's Independence.

Princess Kate to visit Malta for Independence celebrations - MaltaToday.com.mt (http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/41455/princess_kate_to_vist_malta_for_independence_celebrations_)

Quote from: KaTerina Montague on July 13, 2014, 04:08:41 PM
... I suspect she will take George, i can just hear the media out cry if she left him even if it is with his father.

She didn't care about the media when she left her son (even when he was a tiny baby) for a whole week, to go to a beach break William

surprised it is an overnight trip - although the distance would make that sensible

I think she'll be fine - long as she wears those pencil skirts!!

Quote from: Mar on July 21, 2014, 02:31:18 PM

Quote from: KaTerina Montague on July 13, 2014, 04:08:41 PM
... I suspect she will take George, i can just hear the media out cry if she left him even if it is with his father.

She didn't care about the media when she left her son (even when he was a tiny baby) for a whole week, to go to a beach break William

She cares and the media applauds her if she has to leave him to work, vacations she is fine with.

Quote from: wannable on July 06, 2014, 03:09:57 PM
This would be her first foreign trip alone.

Has any of the spouses represented in a foreign trip capacity alone? If not, then the BRF is changing.

Not at an event as big as a country's Independence Day. The Duchess of Cornwall only made her first solo trip abroad last year to France and it wasn't representing the Queen, I can't find any information on The Countess of Wessex.

This is a significant milestone for both Kate and the BRF as well as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

The Queen is obviously very comfortable with Kate to give her such a prestigious assignment and the fact it is 'only' for two days is irrelevant.

Kate representing the Queen in a foreign country marking its Independence Day from Britain is a very big deal.

^As Emily Andrews wrote on Twitter, William is not going because of his new job. If he was available, I think he would be going.

I rather wonder if this had already been committed to, before William took a new job. However, I'm glad Kate is going. She won't be alone-- she'll have a team if staff there. This is a good chance for her to do some work.

No announcement was made about William's plan for September, its all media speculation. The press in Malta have been talking about this for weeks and it was only as a solo trip, William was never mentioned.

QuoteThe Duchess of Cambridge is to take her first solo foreign tour, travelling to Malta on behalf of the Queen in September.

Kate will join celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of Malta's independence from the UK on September 20th and 21st, Kensington Palace announced today.

In a sign of her confidence in her grandson's wife, the Queen has asked the Duchess to travel to the Mediterranean island which holds a special place in her heart.

More: Flying solo at last! The Duchess of Cambridge set for her first foreign tour alone as it is revealed that she will visit Malta in September | Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2700241/Flying-solo-The-Duchess-Cambridge-set-foreign-tour-revealed-visit-Malta-September.html)

Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on July 21, 2014, 04:10:08 PM

Quote from: wannable on July 06, 2014, 03:09:57 PM
This would be her first foreign trip alone.

Has any of the spouses represented in a foreign trip capacity alone? If not, then the BRF is changing.

Not at an event as big as a country's Independence Day. The Duchess of Cornwall only made her first solo trip abroad last year to France and it wasn't representing the Queen, I can't find any information on The Countess of Wessex.

This is a significant milestone for both Kate and the BRF as well as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

The Queen is obviously very comfortable with Kate to give her such a prestigious assignment and the fact it is 'only' for two days is irrelevant.

Sophie was just in India and Qatar last year on behalf of the Queen-- and her trip lasted over a week with heavy duty engagements and speeches. She did a fabulous job in important countries with delicate diplomatic relations with Britain.

I'm sure there are other examples, too. Kate is not the first spouse to represent the Queen abroad.

I think she went in behalf of ORBIS.

Anyway, this first for Kate can only be a great experience.

^^That could totally be true.

I agree that this is good for Kate.

Didn't Diana represent the BRF at Princess Grace's funeral?

Press Release:

QuoteThe Duchess of Cambridge Will Visit Malta

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge will visit Malta on 20th and 21st September 2014 to represent Her Majesty The Queen on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Malta's independence.

Further details will be announced in due course.

Notes to Editors:
This is the Duchess's first solo overseas visit
The Queen last visited Malta in 2007

Press release (http://www.princeofwales.gov.uk/news-and-diary/10718/press-release)

Cindy

Quote from: cate1949 on July 21, 2014, 02:57:01 PM
surprised it is an overnight trip - although the distance would make that sensible

I think she'll be fine - long as she wears those pencil skirts!!

Or a a freakin slip. I swear she needs an official "keep kate's dress down" lady to follow her around all the time.

Quote from: Lady Adams on July 22, 2014, 12:42:55 AM

Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on July 21, 2014, 04:10:08 PM

Quote from: wannable on July 06, 2014, 03:09:57 PM
This would be her first foreign trip alone.

Has any of the spouses represented in a foreign trip capacity alone? If not, then the BRF is changing.

Not at an event as big as a country's Independence Day. The Duchess of Cornwall only made her first solo trip abroad last year to France and it wasn't representing the Queen, I can't find any information on The Countess of Wessex.

This is a significant milestone for both Kate and the BRF as well as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

The Queen is obviously very comfortable with Kate to give her such a prestigious assignment and the fact it is 'only' for two days is irrelevant.

Sophie was just in India and Qatar last year on behalf of the Queen-- and her trip lasted over a week with heavy duty engagements and speeches. She did a fabulous job in important countries with delicate diplomatic relations with Britain.

I'm sure there are other examples, too. Kate is not the first spouse to represent the Queen abroad.

Sophie is a real jewel in the crown!  I like her.

Quote from: Curryong on July 22, 2014, 01:49:12 AM
Didn't Diana represent the BRF at Princess Grace's funeral?

Yes she did.

I know we're still waiting on details for this, but for a little fun speculation:  do you think there will be a state dinner or other tiara event?

I do love ogling the royal jewels (literally, not in the euphemism sense!), and I would love to see Kate attend an event where tiaras are called for.  :Jen:

While I love to see the white tie events, I think it will be more of a cocktail attire reception IMO. I'd expect something similar to what she wore to the party in NZ.

It would be lovely to see the BRF hold some more white-tie events like they used to. They won't, because of consciousness about austerity and that people are doing it tough, but Diana, for instance, always looked beautiful in tiara and jewels.

I actually like the way the Scandinavian royals conduct their weddings, with the women of the royal family and guest royals in tiaras and evening dresses and the men wearing their Orders.

The Swedish royals especially seem to have fun with costume events. There was one gathering of royals where many, including Crown Princess Victoria, were wearing 18th century costumes.

I think you're right, Curryong, but I wish they would open up the vault a little more often.  All those beautiful jewels just sitting in the dark...  :cry:

I agree Curryong and Canuck. There seemed to be more of these events in the past decades. I'm expecting that Carl-Phillip and Sofia's wedding will be a tiara event for the guests, but since he's not the heir I think it will more similar to Madeline's wedding in terms of guests. CP Victoria's and HGD Guillame's weddings were scenes of some of the best glitter in the past few years.  The Swedish and Danish ladies really have a flair for these types of events. 

Off topic, but can we have a moment to remember Victoria's wedding? Nothing better, in my opinion.  :hijack!:

(sigh) I'll go off topic with you Lady Adams.  IMHO one of the happiest of royal weddings because Victoria's smile and Daniel's speech to his bride were among the highlights. The glitter that was on display was spectacular. It was one of those occasions where I'd happily give the royal ladies free reign in wearing as many pieces as possible. Also it's a good thing that the Swedish royals have plenty to share because CG's sisters were going to need something to wear as well.

Richard Palmer @RoyalReporter  ·  4m

Lots of pageantry for Kate in Malta, including a re-enactment of the inspection of the fort and garrison in Palace Square, Valletta.

Richard Palmer @RoyalReporter  ·  7m

Among other highlights of Kate's Malta visit: a walkabout in Vittoriosa Square and a boat tour of the Grand Harbour on Sept 21.

Richard Palmer @RoyalReporter  ·  9m

Kate will see an attend a spectacular 50th anniversary of independence evening celebration overlooking the Grand Harbour on Sept 20.

Richard Palmer @RoyalReporter ·  12m

Kensington Palace has announced a busy schedule in Malta for the Duchess of Cambridge on her first solo overseas visit on Sept 20 and 21

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
https://www.facebook.com/majestymagazine

The programme for the Duchess of Cambridge's visit to Malta from 20-21 September has been announced by Kensington Palace.

Saturday 20 September

Event 1: Call on the President of Malta at San Anton Palace,
where the Duchess will be staying.

Event 2: Call on the Prime Minister of Malta at Auberge de Castille.

Event 3: In Guardia Pageant, Palace Square, Valletta
The Duchess will view a re-enactment of an historical event – the inspection of the fort and garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St John. A variety of military drills will be displayed.

Event 4: National Library, Valletta
The Duchess will view a number of historical documents, including letters from King Henry VIII and George II, and the original citation awarding the George Cross to Malta.

Event 5: Independence Day Celebrations, Upper Barrakka Gardens
The Duchess will attend an evening celebration. The backdrop to the celebration will be the spectacular view of the Grand Harbour.

Sunday 21 September

Event 6: Independence Day Service, St John's Co-Cathedral
The Duchess will attend a church service. She will later view the two Caravaggios in the Cathedral Museum.

Event 7: Access Centre in Vittoriosa
The Duchess will visit Agenzija Zghazagh (Agency for Youth), a government agency which runs a number of initiatives for young people. HRH will hear about the work of the agency from the young people who use the centre and their support workers.

Event 8: Short walk in Vittoriosa Square
The Duchess will take a short walk through the town square. She will then be taken to the Church of St Lawrence to view Maltese art before leaving for the harbour.

Event 9: Boat Tour, Grand Harbour
The Duchess will take a short boat tour across the Grand Harbour to see some iconic views between Vittoriosa and Valletta.

Event 10: The High Commissioner's Garden Party, High Commissioner's Residence
The Duchess will attend an Independence Day Celebration hosted by the British High Commissioner.

I did not  have time to  look  at the links. She  looks great, as always.  She will do well, as always.

That  is  all  a  given.... but needs more  ...oh never mind.

QuoteKENSINGTON Palace has announced a busy programme of 10 engagements in two days for the Duchess of Cambridge in Malta next month on her first official solo overseas visit.

Kate, 32, will be away from her husband Prince William and their 13-month-old son Prince George for one night when she travels to the Mediterranean island on September 20 and 21 to mark the 50th anniversary of its independence from Britain.

Her programme will include plenty of pomp and pageantry as the strategic island, given the George Cross by King George VI to mark the bravery of its people during the Second World War, turns out to greet her.

The centrepiece of her trip will be an independence celebration overlooking the Grand Harbour in the capital Valletta on September 20.

More: Kate Middleton set for first solo overseas trip to mark Malta's independence | Royal | News | Daily Express (http://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/502345/Kate-set-for-first-solo-overseas-visit-Malta-s-independence)

Lots of interesting events!  I'm looking forward to learning more about Malta from the coverage of the visit. 

QuoteThe Duchess of Cambridge will be guest of honour at a spectacular celebration in Malta next month, on her first solo foreign tour on behalf of the Queen.

Kate will leave her young son, Prince George, behind – as well as her husband, Prince William - for two days of official events to mark the 50th anniversary of the island's independence from the UK.

It is a sign of her confidence in her grandson's wife that the monarch has asked the Duchess to travel to the Mediterranean island which holds a special place in her heart.

More: Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, heading to Malta on solo foreign tour on behalf of the Queen | Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2732116/Kate-s-heading-Malta-solo-foreign-tour-behalf-Queen-leaving-William-charge-Prince-George.html)

Bully for her (PR).  I'm sick of her and her husband. 

What on earth will she be talking about whilst meeting the President & PM?   

Any speech?  Or will it just be cutie smiles and flapping of hands?

I fully expect a good speech since she's going solo. I think it'd be really weird if she hadn't improved on her public speaking so I expect it'll be good since she's had time to practice.

USA TODAY

QuoteThe good news for Malta: Duchess Kate of Cambridge arrives in four weeks! The worrying news for Malta: A zillion media people are coming, too.

No doubt at least some Maltese are preparing to flee their pretty little Mediterranean island, beloved of tourists, medieval knights and Queen Elizabeth II, before the invaders arrive.

It's going to be a spectacle but an historic one: It's the first solo official visit for the former Kate Middleton — so no Prince William or baby Prince George — to represent the queen on the 50th anniversary of Malta's independence from Britain.

More: Operation ?Take-Kate-to-Malta? begins: Look out, Malta | Entertain This! (http://entertainthis.usatoday.com/2014/08/22/operation-take-kate-to-malta/)

I haven't watched many of Kates speeches I think she's only done 3, but from what I've seen she hasn't been bad. What does she need to improve on?

Quote from: Canuck on August 22, 2014, 07:08:49 PM
Lots of interesting events!  I'm looking forward to learning more about Malta from the coverage of the visit. 

I agree and I've always had an interest in this Mediterranean crossroad! The history is IMO incredible when you think of all of the influences on this island.

Quote from: KaTerina Montague on August 22, 2014, 10:22:52 PM
I haven't watched many of Kates speeches I think she's only done 3, but from what I've seen she hasn't been bad. What does she need to improve on?

I haven't been impressed with her speeches. There has been a lot of looking down at notes (in the middle of simple sentences) and hair flipping. I agree with History Girl-- I expect there to be improvement...she's had enough time to prepare.  :shrug:

I often wonder if the hair-flipping is a sign of nervous tension, a bit like Charles fiddling with his cuff links, William rubbing his hands together and Harry reaching for his chest and scratching a nipple! Either way, I agree that Kate needs some tutoring on how to give a good speech, and if she keeps her hair out of the equation or styled up and away from her fingers that would be even better.

Quote from: Inge Jones on July 06, 2014, 01:29:14 PM
It takes the media a while to work out that people sometimes change their name upon marriage and she's not Kate Middleton any more.  I think they've just about got it with Camilla now, and you rarely hear the Parker Bowles bit any more.

this Is getting a bti annoying.  Kate isn't "kate Midleton" so why do the papers keep referrig to her as such.

There are more searches for Kate Middleton so it helps with the click counts. I don't see a problem, that is her family name, she is married and not assimilated into the cyborg collective, that is her name, as well as whatever other name she chooses to call herself upon marriage.

Her offiica Little is Duchess Of Cambridge.  its not that difficult for them o get it right.

Could it be that, if she did more official duties, she'd be known more as the Duchess of Cambridge?

Kate Middleton set for first solo overseas trip to mark Malta's independence | Royal | News | Daily Express (http://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/502345/Kate-set-for-first-solo-overseas-visit-Malta-s-independence)

Quote
Full programme:

September 20

Call on President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca at San Anton Palace

Call on Prime Minister Dr Jospeph Muscat at Auberge de Castille

In Guardia Pageant at Palace Square, Valletta, where Kate will view a re-enactment of an historical event – the inspection of the fort and garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of  the Knights of St John. A variety of military drills will be displayed.

Kate views historical royal documents at National Library Valletta

Independence Day Celebrations at Upper Barrakka Gardens

September 21

Kate attends independence day church service at St John's Co-Cathedral and views art works

Visits Agency for Youth in Vittoriosa

Walkabout in town square in Vittoriosa and see art work at church

Boat tour of Grand Harbour

High commissioner's garden party

The Press apparently think the public are dumb and don't know who the Duchess of Cambridge is! I think it will be easier for Kate when she becomes Princess of Wales. Enough time will have passed for her not to be confused with that other Prss of Wales (Camilla not taking the title has helped in that regard) although we will probably then get references to 'Princess Kate' as time goes on!

Quote from: Lady Adams on August 23, 2014, 01:34:54 AM
Could it be that, if she did more official duties, she'd be known more as the Duchess of Cambridge?

no She IS the Duchess of Cambridge.. it doesn't matter if she never did a public appearance.

Quote from: Curryong on August 23, 2014, 02:20:21 AM
The Press apparently think the public are dumb and don't know who the Duchess of Cambridge is! I think it will be easier for Kate when she becomes Princess of Wales. Enough time will have passed for her not to be confused with that other Prss of Wales (Camilla not taking the title has helped in that regard) although we will probably then get references to 'Princess Kate' as time goes on!

This is very true. Good points.

It's interesting.. for a standard google search, I'm getting ~19 million hits for Kate Middleton and almost 16 million for Duchess of Cambridge, so getting closer to 50/50.

OTOH, news.google is 85000 for Kate Middleton and ~8000, a tenfold difference.

SEO can account for a lot of it, I agree, Limabeany. Though, looking at google trends, from April 2011 til May 2014, "Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge" is actually a more popular search term than "Kate Middleton". However, they dwarf both "Duchess of Cambridge" and "Duchess Kate". (Google Trends (http://www.google.com/trends/explore#q=kate%20middleton%2C%20%2Fm%2F05mnc3%2C%20duchess%20of%20cambridge%2C%20duchess%20kate&date=4%2F2011%2038m&cmpt=q)) 

Though, to be honest, when it comes to the press, I think that they lead with whatever one gives them the "feel" they want.
Writing a story about her fashion? "Duchess of Cambridge".
Writing a story to point out that she's so terribly middle class and needs a talking to about her hemlines, trashy taste in birthday themes and/or kitchen? Kate Middleton.
Writing a heartwarming story emphasizing Kate as a wife and mom? just "Kate".

this looks like a very interesting trip - she actually should enjoy it - Malta is gorgeous - the Knights of Malta are a lovely hunky group of guys - serious lookers - I know I am so trivial :blush:

I know Di did solo foreign tours - but this seems like it would have been a great trip for the two of them

I expect a great dress to match the gala atmosphere of this party -

I agree with Adrienne, the media chooses which angle to play off. That being said, I'm not quite sure why it matters so much lol its not like they're calling her by a derogatory remark

I think it is extremely rude ot call a woman who has a title a well known title, form her marriage, by her former name...as bad as calling Camilla "Parker Bowles"

Why? Is there something wrong with her name?

Quote from: HistoryGirl on August 23, 2014, 03:31:28 AM
I agree with Adrienne, the media chooses which angle to play off. That being said, I'm not quite sure why it matters so much lol its not like they're calling her by a derogatory remark

I don't know that I think it matters so much, really. I definitely think that people do need to be aware that it's happening, as part of a critical reading of any source. The words we use are incredibly powerful. Labels mean something, which is why disenfranchised groups often work so hard to "take back" derogatory labels and why people are still paid to write even though we have computers that can do it (looking at you, buzzfeed).

I spent almost half an hour on a conference call today working out the wording on a single line of text that pops up when a certain set of conditions occur on mobile devices; it needed to be both informative and cover two different scenarios that could each trigger it.  If I think that much about the precise words to use to create a specific effect, then so, I suspect, do the people shaping the worldviews of the news consuming public.

I don't know that I'm so much worried about what Kate is called so much as what she accomplishes.

And I'm not really worried about either; I just want to live in a world in which people are more aware of where and from whom they're getting their news, and what angle those people are trying to sell. :D

Unfortunately, the majority of people don't know the facts behind the subjects which forces them to believe what they read, it is quite sad.

Quote from: Curryong on August 23, 2014, 02:20:21 AM
The Press apparently think the public are dumb and don't know who the Duchess of Cambridge is! I think it will be easier for Kate when she becomes Princess of Wales. Enough time will have passed for her not to be confused with that other Prss of Wales (Camilla not taking the title has helped in that regard) although we will probably then get references to 'Princess Kate' as time goes on!

I think Lady Adams is up to something. I don't think she will be called anything else until she is seen to have become someone else by her actions. But, I don't see why people should be up in arms as if her family name were derogatory simply because she has a title that comes with a job she barely performs.

Kate is the perfect example of a wasted life  :no:
I used to like her in 2006 -007 and then after that time it got old  :blank:

it does nto MATTER what she does, her tittle is now Duchess of Cambridge and its rude not to use it.

I agree with Amabel.  It's not so much that she's called "Middleton", which isn't bad in and of itself ... it's a matter of respect.  Use the correct name, just as we want our correct names used.

Cindy

Personally, I don't mind when she's called Kate Middleton.  If something formal is being written about her, obviously Duchess of Cambridge is the correct way to address her.  But I view this like when articles just call the Duke of Cambridge "Will" or the Prince of Wales "Charles".  I think people still use Kate Middleton because just Kate could be confusing--there are a lot of famous Kates, so if you want to immediately indicate it's her, Kate Middleton is the fastest way to do that since everyone knows her as that from pre-wedding.  If she had a more unusual name--like Camilla--then I think the press would just call her that.

Quote from: Canuck on August 23, 2014, 11:42:13 AM
Personally, I don't mind when she's called Kate Middleton.  If something formal is being written about her, obviously Duchess of Cambridge is the correct way to address her.  But I view this like when articles just call the Duke of Cambridge "Will" or the Prince of Wales "Charles".  I think people still use Kate Middleton because just Kate could be confusing--there are a lot of famous Kates, so if you want to immediately indicate it's her, Kate Middleton is the fastest way to do that since everyone knows her as that from pre-wedding.  If she had a more unusual name--like Camilla--then I think the press would just call her that.

I must say that there are wrorse "rude names" used by the press and people about royals and others, Ive seena few like "Chuck" and so on, but I don't like it. and to put it this way, I might be the laziest person alive in my job, but that does not affect my right to be called "Mrs - my husbands' name" if I choose to use that name.  There's no other duchess of Cambridge...
I've certainly been annoyed at one place I was in for many years when the people there just "decided" to use a short version of my first name..and it was impossible to insist on them using my full name, which was what I liked...

Quote from: cate1949 on August 23, 2014, 03:28:48 AM
this looks like a very interesting trip - she actually should enjoy it - Malta is gorgeous - the Knights of Malta are a lovely hunky group of guys - serious lookers - I know I am so trivial :blush:

I know Di did solo foreign tours - but this seems like it would have been a great trip for the two of them

I expect a great dress to match the gala atmosphere of this party -

Oh yeah , I'm looking forward to it . Hopefully william and kate will up their workload gradually  ;)

QuotePalace Source: Kate's Middleton's Solo Trip Is 'Seminal Moment' in Life as a Royal

Princess Kate will be queen for a day. Well, two days – she's stepping into Queen Elizabeth's shoes to represent her on a foreign trip.  Kate, 32, will leave baby Prince George at home and head to Malta in September for a two-day visit.

"This is a seminal moment for her, when she will be showing herself to be stateswoman in her own right," a palace source tells PEOPLE.

The Duchess of Cambridge was asked by the Queen, 88, to represent the royal family at the Mediterranean island's 50th anniversary of independence celebration, which involves the kind of royal engagements that she would normally do together with Prince William.

Kate will be calling on Malta's president, Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, and is also giving a speech, which insiders say she is "nervous" about.  Kate has made two speeches on foreign soil before, while touring Malaysia in 2012 and in Australia this year, but this is her first speech on behalf of the Queen.

More: http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20395222_20846245,00.html

Cindy

QuoteUpdated - Kate Middleton will stay at San Anton Palace and visit Valletta, the Grand Harbour and Vittoriosa during her short visit to Malta next month to mark the fiftieth anniversary of Independence.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge will be in Malta representing the Queen. This will be her first official solo overseas trip.

The programme was revealed by the UK media late yesterday, while the Department of Information in Malta announced it this afternoon.

More: Updated - Kate Middleton's Malta programme revealed - timesofmalta.com (http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20140823/local/updated-kate-middletons-malta-programme-revealed.532791)

Kate has been known as Kate Middleton for almost a decade before she got married, it is easier to keep referring to her as that because people know who that is after so many years. I usually see her name and title together in articles. I've also seen Camilla still called Camilla Parker Bowles or Duchess of Cornwall the former Camilla Parker Bowles. I also believe calling Diana Princess Diana was wrong but the media always did it.
As for Kate's speech making if the only problem is her looking down then I think she is doing quite well.

With the exception of well-seasoned speakers, most speakers do look down at their notes from time to time (assuming they don't have a teleprompter). 

4 Common Ways To Remember Material - presentation skills (http://www.ljlseminars.com/remember.htm)

Cindy

QuoteThe Duchess of Cambridge will be guest of honour at a spectacular celebration in Malta next month, on her first solo foreign tour on behalf of the Queen.
Kate will leave her young son, Prince George, behind – as well as her husband, Prince William - for two days of official events to mark the 50th anniversary of Malta's  independence from the UK.
It is a sign of her confidence in her grandson's wife that the monarch has asked the Duchess to travel to the island which holds a special place in her heart.
As young newly-weds, the Queen and Prince Philip - who was then serving in HMS Chequers with the Royal Navy's Mediterranean Fleet - lived together on Malta for almost two years.
The Queen considers their time there as one of the happiest periods of her life as it was their only experience of living like an 'ordinary' couple.

More: Duchess Kate to leave Prince George back home, to be taken care of by Prince William - The Malta Independent (http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2014-08-23/news/duchess-kate-to-leave-prince-george-back-home-to-be-taken-care-of-by-prince-william-6307545090/)

Why is Kate being singled out for checking her notes, even if the speech is deemed easy? The born British Royals look at their notes with about the same frequency! And have their nervous soothing ticks and tricks to calm down. The latest speech I heard from a born royal he said in a span of 2 minutes the word "behind me" about 10 times. And every 3 words checked notes for something so simple as presenting the real speaker of the event.

The point is for her to be the best out of the lot? I wouldn't mind that, it would be great for her to strive to improve.

I think her speech will have to do with the Independence Day, sending the best wishes from Her Majesty and an anecdote of PP and Q during those two best years of their lives.

Quote from: KaTerina Montague on August 23, 2014, 02:26:16 PM
Kate has been known as Kate Middleton for almost a decade before she got married, it is easier to keep referring to her as that because people know who that is after so many years. I usually see her name and title together in articles. I've also seen Camilla still called Camilla Parker Bowles or Duchess of Cornwall the former Camilla Parker Bowles. I also believe calling Diana Princess Diana was wrong but the media always did it.
As for Kate's speech making if the only problem is her looking down then I think she is doing quite well.

And it is rude to call Camila Cam Parker Bowles.  Calling Diana Princess Di was wrong but it wasn't referring to her as Diana Spencer. No idea what K's speech making is like so can't commnet.

Quote from: wannable on August 23, 2014, 04:07:58 PM
Why is Kate being singled out for checking her notes, even if the speech is deemed easy? The born British Royals look at their notes with about the same frequency! And have their nervous soothing ticks and tricks to calm down. The latest speech I heard from a born royal he said in a span of 2 minutes the word "behind me" about 10 times. And every 3 words checked notes for something so simple as presenting the real speaker of the event.

The point is for her to be the best out of the lot? I wouldn't mind that, it would be great for her to strive to improve.

I think her speech will have to do with the Independence Day, sending the best wishes from Her Majesty and an anecdote of PP and Q during those two best years of their lives.

:goodpost:

Her social skills are very weak for someone from her walk of life  :P  :happy15: its not just when giving speeches , the bar in general has been set low for kate  <_< people are wondering what in the world is wrong with her .
Her interactions with people and the things she's said sound so utterly ridiculous  :no: can you smell the smell by smelling it  :censored2:

I swear if she has an upskirt for the 6 th time this trip I think even the press will make fun of her and once that starts it will be fergie-esque .

Another example of a silly thing she's said

I met the Duchess of Cambridge (Kate Middleton) afterwards and she said: 'Oh, I know who you are now! Although it's very strange - now you have got facial hair. Some of the people who had facial hair in the film don't have facial hair now.' I guess she doesn't hang around actors very much."
   
Tom Hiddleston

I dread to think what she said to the Obamas, HM, & other heads of state.   She really has been infantilised by her family & PW

She is just not a very birhgt or hard working girl...I  mean if she did say stuff like this..

Yup william and harry make witty jokes , kate on the other hand  :angel:
Ross Lydall - Hirsutes you, sir! Kate puzzled by War Horse actor's close shave : Ross Lydall | Blogs | Evening Standard (http://lydall.standard.co.uk/2012/01/hirsutes-you-sir-kate-puzzled-by-war-horse-actors-close-shave.html)
here is the article .^
And Tom Hiddleston is a Cambridge graduate , he studied at Eton alongside william and harry , he comes from the same walk of life that kate does . Its almost embarrassing .

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Well Tom Hiddleston is a Cambridge graduate so talking to her must have been    :random39:
In an interview recently when asked about William and Kate (as he has been playing Henry V on the BBC) he said in a dead pan tone "God Save The Queen" which is made all the more intriguing as he went to Eton with William.

The recent centerpoint gala which kate didnt attend surprisingly didnt invite him but only invited Benedict Cumberbach fellow eton grad ...

What's wrong with her telling someone that she didn't recognize him with facial hair? :hmm:

Cindy

Quote from: tiaras on August 23, 2014, 05:21:26 PM
Her social skills are very weak for someone from her walk of life  :P  :happy15: its not just when giving speeches , the bar in general has been set low for kate  <_< people are wondering what in the world is wrong with her .
Her interactions with people and the things she's said sound so utterly ridiculous  :no: can you smell the smell by smelling it  :censored2:

I swear if she has an upskirt for the 6 th time this trip I think even the press will make fun of her and once that starts it will be fergie-esque .

Another example of a silly thing she's said

I met the Duchess of Cambridge (Kate Middleton) afterwards and she said: 'Oh, I know who you are now! Although it's very strange - now you have got facial hair. Some of the people who had facial hair in the film don't have facial hair now.' I guess she doesn't hang around actors very much."
   
Tom Hiddleston

I dread to think what she said to the Obamas, HM, & other heads of state.   She really has been infantilised by her family & PW

Lol that's hilarious. She seems to be someone that isn't very good at socializing. Pippa seems to be the social, inviting one.

Quote from: tiaras on August 23, 2014, 05:47:26 PM
Yup william and harry make witty jokes , kate on the other hand  :angel:
Ross Lydall - Hirsutes you, sir! Kate puzzled by War Horse actor's close shave : Ross Lydall | Blogs | Evening Standard (http://lydall.standard.co.uk/2012/01/hirsutes-you-sir-kate-puzzled-by-war-horse-actors-close-shave.html)
here is the article .^
And Tom Hiddleston is a Cambridge graduate , he studied at Eton alongside william and harry , he comes from the same walk of life that kate does . Its almost embarrassing .

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Well Tom Hiddleston is a Cambridge graduate so talking to her must have been    :random39:
In an interview recently when asked about William and Kate (as he has been playing Henry V on the BBC) he said in a dead pan tone "God Save The Queen" which is made all the more intriguing as he went to Eton with William.

The recent centerpoint gala which kate didnt attend surprisingly didnt invite him but only invited Benedict Cumberbach fellow eton grad ...

A little unfair, don't you think, to form a negative opinion based on a third hand report of a private conversation........

That's what the actor chose to speak about when asked about her at the premier so its not a private conversation  :shrug: and he clearly said he had no idea what they thought of the movie  :notamused:
So far this man has been very courteous and polite when referring to people he has met but this was a very different encounter .
She doesn't come off well in a lot of conversations , this was just an example there are a lot more gaffes and silly things shes said and its not the silliness that makes it embarrassing , its her childish responses , its like the lights are on but nobody's home when she speaks imo  :censored2:

Since no one here is with the royals on such occasions that is what we all do at the Forum, a positive opinion is no more fair or unfair than a negative one. Anyone who is speaking with someone else is free to form their own opinion based on that exchange, I don't see why that is less fair than those who say talking with her felt like the second coming. The same is true for anyone reading about the exchange.

Quote from: cinrit on August 23, 2014, 06:44:59 PM
What's wrong with her telling someone that she didn't recognize him with facial hair? :hmm:

Cindy

That's not the only thing , I singled it out because she starts with ' oh now I recognize you ' which imo was foolish and the actor could've been offended (anyone could have)  unless she is his best friend thats not a very well mannered way to talk to someone .

And since that is her "job" rolls eyes she should be able to speak properly .

second thing was how it sounded as if she was thinking out loud , not even taking into consideration he's standing in front of her like oh you have facial hair lol . It certainly doesnt make her look  intelligent .
How about some professionalism , compliment his acting , the movie was very deep and touching , she could have hit on any of those points .
I dread to think of how she will interact with foreign dignitaries on her own without william  :P

Quote from: amabel on August 23, 2014, 08:09:00 AM
it does nto MATTER what she does, her tittle is now Duchess of Cambridge and its rude not to use it.

Have to agree with HG here.

Why be offended by someone not using a title? I can see the annoyance when it comes to MDs, PHDs, CEO, CFO, etc., because that is indicative of a real-world hierarchy of education level and/or business.

Why put emphasis on an defunct hierarchy? I don't get it. Can we all have titles? I call dibs on Princess Pia Paloma Pumpernickle of Prussia and Pomerania! Same effect. There's no real value in a title unless you're under the impression that it means something today. It seems to me, that this may as well be Tooth Fairy and Santa Claus mentality. If you believe in it, it exists! Voila! If you don't, the world just keeps on spinning, doesn't it?

^I suppose that is the difference. I've personally never been able to support the mentality of "oh they're royal, it's their right to have this or be called that." I've accepted that they exist, but the special treatment is just not something I'm personally prepared to give.

Again, I agree with you. I this there is a disconnect among people by the measures of their individual evaluations of people in the RF.

Person X: Evaluates the subject of interest du jour solely as a person.

Person Y: Evaluates the subject of interest du jour with a preconditioned notion of elevated status.

Quote from: tiaras on August 23, 2014, 08:07:24 PM
That's not the only thing , I singled it out because she starts with ' oh now I recognize you ' which imo was foolish and the actor could've been offended (anyone could have)  unless she is his best friend thats not a very well mannered way to talk to someone .

Sorry, I still don't see the problem.  If he was offended by something like that, he maybe needs a thicker skin. :shrug:

Cindy

Quote from: HistoryGirl on August 23, 2014, 08:32:34 PM
^I suppose that is the difference. I've personally never been able to support the mentality of "oh they're royal, it's their right to have this or be called that." I've accepted that they exist, but the special treatment is just not something I'm personally prepared to give.

its not a matter of their being royal.  Its a courtesy you should extend to anyone, calling them by their proper name or title.

I believe history girl is saying that some title, ie Dr or Mr. President, is more important to her to use than those that havent been earned. The system of nobility and royalty is not bought into by many and many don't care to adhere to rules that they don't believe in. It may he a courtesy and I assume many people show that courtesy when they meet a member of the RF, but not bothering to do so in print.  Plus I have always seen DOC used in articles that still refer to her as Kate Middleton.

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I have never seen Harry have a social tick, but the most famous one I can think of is Charles and his cuff links , I know William has one but I thought he was also a cufflink person but I admit I don't remember to well. Kate's tick is clearly her hair, don't know why it's any more irritating then what Charles does; do any of the other royals have nervous habits?

Yes KaTerina, thank you that's what I meant. To me, Kate, Catherine, Duchess, Princess is all the same because what matters to me is what the person does not what titles they have considering it wasn't earned. Like Daisy said, personally I don't see her as elevated because she is a 'duchess'.

And as far as the Tom Hiddleston comment, I thought it funny because he sounded amused that someone would see an actor from a movie and assume he always looks like that, as if she doesn't understand that actors are playing a character and don't always look like that hence the comment about her not hanging around actors much. Her use of the word 'strange' was funny to me too, as if it's 'strange' that a man grows a beard lol she's probably someone that's not great at small talk and just says whatevers in her head at the time, but I thought that a socialite would have more skill at it since going to events is mainly what is done.

I wouldn't recognise Tom Hiddleston unless he was dressed as Loki and even then I wouldn't care  :lol:

Quote from: cinrit on August 23, 2014, 08:45:48 PM

Quote from: tiaras on August 23, 2014, 08:07:24 PM
That's not the only thing , I singled it out because she starts with ' oh now I recognize you ' which imo was foolish and the actor could've been offended (anyone could have)  unless she is his best friend thats not a very well mannered way to talk to someone .

Sorry, I still don't see the problem.  If he was offended by something like that, he maybe needs a thicker skin. :shrug:

Cindy

Or she needs better preparation before events?

Maybe Prince Philip can give her some pointers, he doesn't know or care who is talking to half the time and seems to do alright  :lol:

The RIF Twitter feed has some of Phil's best one liners.

Exactly, I don't see a problem either.  Although most comments of people meeting and greeting, what Kate said seem to be complementary.

Ok. But hey as far as I'm concerned, at least the guy works for a living. I don't particularly care if Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge, Countess of Strathearn and Lady Carrickfergus actually is good at mingling. But as far as public speaking goes, Her Royal Highness should improve. This solo trip should be good for her; I think it's great that she carve her own niche without HRH The Duke of Cambridge as well as with him. Personally, I'd like to see a good strong role model for young women especially in regards to speaking out over important causes and events.

Quote from: HistoryGirl on August 23, 2014, 10:15:27 PM
And as far as the Tom Hiddleston comment, I thought it funny because he sounded amused that someone would see an actor from a movie and assume he always looks like that, as if she doesn't understand that actors are playing a character and don't always look like that hence the comment about her not hanging around actors much. Her use of the word 'strange' was funny to me too, as if it's 'strange' that a man grows a beard lol she's probably someone that's not great at small talk and just says whatevers in her head at the time, but I thought that a socialite would have more skill at it since going to events is mainly what is done. 

I didn't get the impression that she assumed he would always look like he did in the movie; I got the impression that she just didn't recognize him at first and told him why.

Cindy

That's the feeling I also got, thought it to be a normal comment. Anyway it prompted a search, as previously mentioned, there's a lot of complimentary remarks about Kate, from VIPs, charity organizers, and random people.

So not sure if she will be a PP for William, as he is for the Queen. Although William has said she has a great sense of humor.

Well that was your impression which is fine; he had his.

Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on August 23, 2014, 10:25:28 PM
I wouldn't recognise Tom Hiddleston unless he was dressed as Loki and even then I wouldn't care  :lol:

LOL  :clap: Same here!

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As far as tics are concerned, I am convinced that Kate's hair-flipping is a sign of nervous tension on her part, and I wish she would wear her hair up more frequently so we wouldn't see it. Charles of course fiddles with his cuff links.

William and Harry often rub their hands together when they arrive for public engagements and Harry has been known to stroke his chest inside his jacket. The Queen's handbag isn't a tic of course, but she does adjust it several times when she's appearing in public.It's probably a comfort thing that she carries it everywhere.

I would like to think adults who take pride in doing a good job would know an actor they are expected to meet at the premiere of his own movie... I wouldn't know him on the street or anywhere else but at the premiere of his own movie in which I am a guest of honor?

I'm sad to see this , people are standing on their heads making up different excuses to save their perfect duchess  :hehe: this is so sad ..

Imagine what she must be saying to the obamas and other royals , she isn't coming off as bright .

And another thing putting the actor or individual down to raise kate up is a trend I see .
Btw I doubt he was insulted he mocked her at the end of it slightly . My point that she isnt able to have intelligent conversations with people she meets at her "job" then how is she going to handle this trip all by herself .
Fans better brace themselves for her gaffes  :Jen:

When I go to a premier and if I decide to be the guest of honour and have all the cast and crew in a line like servants to shake hands with me I better know their names darn well or at least do my basic research about the movie....but she made this comment after it was over , the only person kate is hurting is herself and her rep , she has a handful of supporters now  :happycry: and if she has some sense she will try to be more professional .

I think we all hope that Kate will become more professional, tiaras, otherwise it will be disastrous.

I feel kate wasn't reallly going to amount to thing and carole supported her as much as she could to get married to a man who could care for her  :angel: someone mentioned pippa being the more social one it as HG I think and yeah I agree she and james are very independent , one has his own business the other has worked full time for a company and regularly writes for the party pieces website , they are all ambitious  kate otoh is lost and i really hope for her sake she tries this trip  :angeldevil1: 

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Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on August 23, 2014, 10:32:18 PM
Maybe Prince Philip can give her some pointers, he doesn't know or care who is talking to half the time and seems to do alright  :lol:

The RIF Twitter feed has some of Phil's best one liners.

edit another reason this royal hoopla should come to an end after the queen  :Jen:

[mod]This comment was edited by a moderator because it didn't abide by our community standards (Rules (http://www.royalinsight.net/forum/index.php?action=about) and Etiquette (http://www.royalinsight.net/forum/index.php?action=about;sa=Etiquette) ). [/mod]

Whilst I have always been critical if Kate's apparent lack of work ethic (pre and post wedding), I do hope that this in an indication of things to come. For this reason I hope that it goes well so that she can continue to build confidence in engagements. This is not to say that she isn't confident, just that these things, like any job, take practice and usually on a regular basis.

I actually think it will be good for Kate to do this without William.  We'll get a better understanding of her as an individual rather than as part of a duo. I think William can come across as a bit stilted, so it'll be interesting to see what Kate is like without him present.

Quote from: tiaras on August 24, 2014, 06:11:17 AM
I'm sad to see this , people are standing on their heads making up different excuses to save their perfect duchess  :hehe: this is so sad ..

Not sad at all.  Just a difference of opinion and impression, which we're all entitled to and which we're all here to freely express withuot judgment as long as it's done in a respectful manner. :hug:

Cindy

Here's an interview Prince Edward in reference to Kate.

Detailed insight, as he speaks in behalf of BRF, his mom and dad.

Kate Middleton has taken to royal life "like a duck to water", says Prince Edward - Mirror Online (http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/kate-middleton-has-taken-to-royal-life-772492)

^^^ Lovely article  :thanks:

QuoteEdward said: "Catherine is doing very well. She has taken to royal life like a duck to water.

"She's very gracious and the family is very proud of her.

"It was never going to be easy for Catherine as the whole world is watching her every move.

"My mother and father are understandably very protective of her.

"William's grown up with the attention but Catherine hasn't.

"But she's dealing with it very well and the family support her as much as we can.

"I think William and Harry, as well as my brother, have tried their best to make her transition into public life as gentle as possible."

A "short walk" is considered one of her "events"?  :Lothwen:

Its how the CC works. When Harry departed Heathrow airport for his visit to Brazil it was listed as an 'event' and his arrival back home was listed as an 'event'.

Which makes sense. Most of my colleagues travel during office hours or weekdays, although I much prefer to travel on a Sunday evening, extend the next weekend for site seeing and shopping.

Kate's Malta trip is work during a weekend. I am curious to see what will it be for the diplomatic gift exchange, garden party and what Kate wore. Obviously anecdotes are given to the press during the diplomatic meetings, but most said is private, words in behalf of the Queen, etc.

Quote from: Lady Adams on August 24, 2014, 02:59:22 PM
A "short walk" is considered one of her "events"?  :Lothwen:

It's described in multiple locations as a walkabout, so yeah. And the square is comparably sized to most of the walkabouts on her canadian and NZ/Austrailian tours (it's also not substantially different from the public walk portion of the Sandringham Christmas Day event).

Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on August 24, 2014, 02:33:50 PM
^^^ Lovely article  :thanks:

QuoteEdward said: "Catherine is doing very well. She has taken to royal life like a duck to water.

"She's very gracious and the family is very proud of her.

"It was never going to be easy for Catherine as the whole world is watching her every move.

"My mother and father are understandably very protective of her.

"William's grown up with the attention but Catherine hasn't.

"But she's dealing with it very well and the family support her as much as we can.

"I think William and Harry, as well as my brother, have tried their best to make her transition into public life as gentle as possible."

Thanks for pointing out these quotes PrincessOfPeace. You can tell that Edward and Sophie are very close to Kate - Louise was a bridesmaid at her and William's wedding after all, and she (Kate) has also been seen with Louise at the Olympics back in 2012. It's nice to hear that she is getting lots of support from the RF, and judging by Edward's comments, she has been welcomed into it.

I'm looking forward to her visit to Malta. Hopefully this means that she will be performing more engagements once she gets back. I'm not getting my hopes up though, since I said this before her Australia and New Zealand tour, yet she still continued to stay at home after that. :notamused: Don't get me wrong, I like Kate and I understand that she performs private engagements too, but it's the public engagements I want to see more of. Technically looking after George isn't an excuse anymore, since he has a nanny and lots of other staff too, probably.

I know I'm a lone wolf but I happen to believe that everyone within the Firm, not just W&K are doing exactly what is expected and required of them at the moment. I'd like to see more of W&K for the simple reason I'm a fan but I also understand my wishes are not necessarily the wishes of the BRF. The same with Harry, I'd like to see more of him but I accept that its not in the family's best interest atm.
Its obvious to me at least from Edward's comments that there is no tension going on behind the scenes.

Quote from: Limabeany on August 24, 2014, 01:09:36 AM
I would like to think adults who take pride in doing a good job would know an actor they are expected to meet at the premiere of his own movie... I wouldn't know him on the street or anywhere else but at the premiere of his own movie in which I am a guest of honor?

Observing a level of courtesy, but on the other end, having the expectation that people should observe a standard of protocol for a person in jewels or a silly hat? Lima, you so crazy! Where do you get these wild ideas of yours?   :happy15:

Quote from: tiaras on August 24, 2014, 07:16:34 AManother reason this royal hoopla should come to an end after the queen  :Jen:

Seconded!

Quote from: tiaras on August 24, 2014, 06:11:17 AM
I'm sad to see this , people are standing on their heads making up different excuses to save their perfect duchess  :hehe: this is so sad ..

Imagine what she must be saying to the obamas and other royals , she isn't coming off as bright .

And another thing putting the actor or individual down to raise kate up is a trend I see .
Btw I doubt he was insulted he mocked her at the end of it slightly . My point that she isnt able to have intelligent conversations with people she meets at her "job" then how is she going to handle this trip all by herself .
Fans better brace themselves for her gaffes  :Jen:

When I go to a premier and if I decide to be the guest of honour and have all the cast and crew in a line like servants to shake hands with me I better know their names darn well or at least do my basic research about the movie....but she made this comment after it was over , the only person kate is hurting is herself and her rep , she has a handful of supporters now  :happycry: and if she has some sense she will try to be more professional .

In the traveling circus that the world is today, we come to a singular attraction, the Flea Circus.  Even though I'm not even in the tent, I can't help but feel bad for those who paid admission and had to sit through the entire "show" knowing that there's nothing actually there. "Do you see the fleas? There's acrobats, clowns, and even a ring master!" I'm not even sure what I'm more fascinated by more at this point, the Flea Circus itself or observing the exercises in false-consensus and heuristics of people's rapturous applause.

Off topic: Have any of the admins considered a rate-up function to give a supportive tip of the hat or acknowledgement of well thought out posts without having to participate in threads? I'm not sure who actually does the coding for this site.

^^ We had something like that for a short period of time a couple of years back.

Cindy

Ah. I see. Thank you for the heads-up regardless. In exchange for a rate-up, please accept a dancing banana emoticon.  :banana:

Maybe even three:

:banana:  :banana:  :banana:

A rate would be a good way to participate in the forum , considering there are many guests who also view the forum and various threads on a  regular basis  I assume . For the recent sarah article I noticed 25 guests were viewing , now I am sure they wish they could participate without having to join or leave a comment .

Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on August 24, 2014, 05:18:59 PM
I know I'm a lone wolf but I happen to believe that everyone within the Firm, not just W&K are doing exactly what is expected and required of them at the moment. I'd like to see more of W&K for the simple reason I'm a fan but I also understand my wishes are not necessarily the wishes of the BRF. The same with Harry, I'd like to see more of him but I accept that its not in the family's best interest atm.
Its obvious to me at least from Edward's comments that there is no tension going on behind the scenes.

:goodpost:

Quote from: tiaras on August 23, 2014, 05:21:26 PM
I met the Duchess of Cambridge (Kate Middleton) afterwards and she said: 'Oh, I know who you are now! Although it's very strange - now you have got facial hair. Some of the people who had facial hair in the film don't have facial hair now.' I guess she doesn't hang around actors very much."
   
Tom Hiddleston[/i]

Add it to the long line of embarrassing things Kate said. It is not a short one.

What I find rather interesting that we have people who claim she is great, but we have no quotes from those encounters. Not just "this what we've talked about" but a clear intelligent and informative sentence she has formed. Neither do we have any recordings of this brilliance.

We do have quite an impressive sample of the opposite though.

This is after all a woman who is a regular reader of Hello magazine and not much else (as reported by a shop she used to frequent and buy her magazines from).

 :goodpost: :notworthy:

Kate didn't work because William may have found another lady to be at his beck and call. 

Now she has more than just William to answer to.  And, no, sorry I do not believe she is restricted from working at the behest of HM.  Excuses galore....Not buying any of them.... cause they keep changing....:orchid:  :knit:

Press release from the Government of Malta

Visit by HRH The Duchess of Cambridge to Malta - 20 - 21 September 2014 (https://www.gov.mt/en/Communities/Media%20and%20Press/Pages/Duchess%20of%20Cambridge%20Sept%202014/Media-Advisory.aspx)

Harsh lessons in throwing turds at the wall to see what sticks.

I need to read The Guardian article posted anyway.

So many threads about her and all of us chip in our what we like and not...how many times we all rehash our sentiment.

Anyway, I can't wait for this Malta trip, she must be a bit nervous at least, a big deal representing Queen and country!

Quote from: wannable on August 27, 2014, 11:15:18 PM
So many threads about her and all of us chip in our what we like and not...how many times we all rehash our sentiment.

Anyway, I can't wait for this Malta trip, she must be a bit nervous at least, a big deal representing Queen and country!

My point exactly my friend and I agree its a big deal for Kate representing Queen and country!

I would agree if she was making some sort of speech.  Instead of wandering around with hair like Rapunzel flapping her hands around. 

Sorry, but I just don't get it.

Sigh.  No one is claiming she's a saint.  I said I would be happy with her as my Queen.  That's not not the same thing as saying she's perfect or infallible.

QuoteVisit by HRH The Duchess of Cambridge to Malta - 20 - 21 September 2014

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge will visit Malta on 20th and 21st September 2014.

·         PROGRAMME

Saturday 20th September

Call on the President of Malta H.E. Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca
San Anton Palace

Call on the Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and Mrs Muscat
Auberge de Castille, Valletta

More: Visit by HRH The Duchess of Cambridge to Malta - 20 - 21 September 2014 (https://www.gov.mt/en/Communities/Media%20and%20Press/Pages/Duchess%20of%20Cambridge%20Sept%202014/Media-Advisory.aspx)

Cindy

VISIT BY HRH THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE TO MALTA - SEPTEMBER 2014

Media and Press (https://www.gov.mt/en/Communities/Media%20and%20Press/Pages/Media%20and%20Press.aspx)

This vacation I mean tour is going to be anothernightmareI mean crazy, it all going to be about what Kate wear! why she is not drinking wine! Her never change hairstyle! Honest they could have sent Sophie or Beatrice  if they don't want this to be another mockery tour! The Queen should have think this thru before all these silliness!!   :wellduh:

Malta is too important for the Queen, hence she's sending Kate.

Malta is dear to the queen for those two years, the 50th independence anniversary, Kate's command of front page news.

The world media presence is going to be massive. One reporter said on Twitter she booked her accommodations and accreditation 4 weeks ago to guarantee a place.

Quote from: Canuck on August 28, 2014, 11:53:26 AM
Sigh.  No one is claiming she's a saint.  I said I would be happy with her as my Queen.  That's not not the same thing as saying she's perfect or infallible.

Assuming you are referring to Camilla, I think that she is controversial and always will be so. As I said there are mixed reactions to her to say the very least.

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Quote from: wannable on August 28, 2014, 02:23:41 PM
Malta is too important for the Queen, hence she's sending Kate.

Malta is dear to the queen for those two years, the 50th independence anniversary, Kate's command of front page news.

I know this has been rehashed. But the Queen did not spend two consecutive years in Malta. For one thing she was pregnant within a few months of marriage and before she went on a maternity leave, she spent time in London awaiting Charles birth.  She went to Malta between the births of Charles and Anne and Anne was conceived there. She went to London for her confinement and Anne was born in London. So she did not just spend two straight years there. She did spend more time there but her children stayed with her parents in London. And in between Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip were active pinch hitting for her father doing major tours and royal duties. She had access to state papers. There was a window of opportunity in Malta but she did not get "two years off" on any consecutive basis.

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Quote from: Lady Adams on August 28, 2014, 03:50:06 PM

Quote from: Macrobug on August 28, 2014, 02:34:26 PM
The question is: in this day and age of instant media with twitter and internet, can they separate the public and the personal image.  Is it even worth while to try.  Fifty years ago royal watchers were satisfied with the occasional photo spread of the "inner workings" in Hello Mag. or a 5 minute clip of carefully filmed family life.  Now people want to know everything and if that void isn't filled with actual info then speculation will do.  It is an age of celebrity.  But is the RF celebrities and do they want to be known as such

Macro, I really appreciate your contributions to this discussion, and I think your point about new media raises a lot of good questions. One I'd like to add is: accountability. Instantaneous news and reporting also raises the public's ability to hold their public figures, from the PM to the BRF, accountable.

I, for one, love the Queen Mother and know she had hundreds of patronages. However, I think that if I got a more accurate and instantaneous record of how she spent money (a lot) and her time, I might have a different opinion.

Well there are degrees of this. William and Kate in their thirties are not full time royals but they partake of the perks which are not "cheap."

The Queen Mum died after a life of public service and nobody ever complained about her work ethic. Unlike Kate and William she worked hard. Big difference there.

Quote from: sandy on August 28, 2014, 07:41:34 PM
I know this has been rehashed. But the Queen did not spend two consecutive years in Malta. For one thing she was pregnant within a few months of marriage and before she went on a maternity leave, she spent time in London awaiting Charles birth.  She went to Malta between the births of Charles and Anne and Anne was conceived there. She went to London for her confinement and Anne was born in London. So she did not just spend two straight years there. She did spend more time there but her children stayed with her parents in London. And in between Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip were active pinch hitting for her father doing major tours and royal duties. She had access to state papers. There was a window of opportunity in Malta but she did not get "two years off" on any consecutive basis.

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True, she did not spend 2 years there.  But she has stated that her time in Malta was important to her and was a special time.  Maybe we are reading too much into the choice of Kate but it does seem to me  that it is a vote of confidence.   
BTW - when QE was in Malta it was as 1st in line.  So should we not be comparing her activities then to Charles?

Quote from: Macrobug on August 28, 2014, 08:00:57 PM

Quote from: sandy on August 28, 2014, 07:41:34 PM
I know this has been rehashed. But the Queen did not spend two consecutive years in Malta. For one thing she was pregnant within a few months of marriage and before she went on a maternity leave, she spent time in London awaiting Charles birth.  She went to Malta between the births of Charles and Anne and Anne was conceived there. She went to London for her confinement and Anne was born in London. So she did not just spend two straight years there. She did spend more time there but her children stayed with her parents in London. And in between Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip were active pinch hitting for her father doing major tours and royal duties. She had access to state papers. There was a window of opportunity in Malta but she did not get "two years off" on any consecutive basis.

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True, she did not spend 2 years there.  But she has stated that her time in Malta was important to her and was a special time.  Maybe we are reading too much into the choice of Kate but it does seem to me  that it is a vote of confidence.   
BTW - when QE was in Malta it was as 1st in line.  So should we not be comparing her activities then to Charles?

Prince Philip was on duty in Malta. As his wife the Queen stayed with him. She was not "sent" to Malta she got permission from her father to stay with Philip. Different from Kate being "sent there." And Kate is not looked at as "more important" than Charles.

^Sorry?  I am having problems following that.   :flower:  Could you expand?  I am not sure what you mean by "sent" there in terms of what I said nor what you mean by more important.  (I am having one of those days where the brain isn't fully engaged.  It may make sense on the next reading)

Quote from: Macrobug on August 28, 2014, 08:15:16 PM
^Sorry?  I am having problems following that.   :flower:  Could you expand?  I am not sure what you mean by "sent" there in terms of what I said nor what you mean by more important.  (I am having one of those days where the brain isn't fully engaged.  It may make sense on the next reading)

Assigned the tour, Sent by the Queen, what have you.

The Queen when Princess did not "tour" Malta she stayed there with Philip from time to time while he was on duty there.

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Quote from: KaTerina Montague on August 28, 2014, 09:53:20 PM
Just to add to the list of women who did say no to a royal, Elizabeth Bowles Lyons said no 2x. I'm sorry for still harping on that but the idea of building these men up just because their first name is Prince irritates the hell out of me.
I used to admire Kate but I am losing that admiration;  I might have this wrong,  but the idea of aristocracy and monarchy is just being there. Doing little accomplishing little contributing little to the wider world, just being there nothing g more. I may have this wrong I just have a theory. Someone correct me if I'm wrong but the queen has accomplished nothing on her own has she? Being a Queen isn't something she worked towards it is just an accident of birth.  Or maybe some of us have differrnt ideas of what an accomplishment is?
Prince Charles has accomplished things as has Princess Anne and others, so I'm not saying it is impossible but maybe it is OK for Kate to accomplish little in her life and still be an admired queen.

Traditionally royals who are not seen much get criticized.  The public thinks they have something against them or are "snobs." 

If Kate rarely works I doubt she'll be an "admired" Queen.

[admin]As this topic has digressed a little too far from the originating point of the Malta trip, transpiring into an eclectic mosaic of Kate Middleton themes, I have merged a large proportion of the thread with existing, more relevant topics as follows: The discussions on Kate's graduation, perceived work-ethic/history and general attributes/failings can now be found and pursued here: William & Kate - General Chat No. 5! (http://www.royalinsight.net/forum/index.php?topic=71606.0) . The emerging discussion on Kate's qualities and suitability as a future Consort can now be found here: Duchess of Cambridge :What now for Catherine ? (http://www.royalinsight.net/forum/index.php?topic=71537.0) . The digressing conversation on general literature can now be found here: Favorite Books (http://www.royalinsight.net/forum/index.php?topic=71575.0) [/admin]

[admin] As with any discussion across the forum there is flexibility to digress, but please keep such deviations relevant to the central theme. Thank you.[/admin]

From Twttier

Martin @CourtierUK · 3h
This solo visit to Malta could be a defining factor for Kate. If she performs well, she'll prove she can handle more engagements solo...

Martin @CourtierUK · 3h
...otherwise, I suspect there'll be more of a focus on engagements done with W for near future!

I actually think she has already proven that she can do solo engagements just fine. I think she will now show us that she can carry out official foreign tours on her own.

I thinks she's going to do a fantastic job and I'm sure she's getting herself well prepared for the trip.
__________________

I'm nervous for her. I do hope those two days go by with flying colors!

It obviously the Queen has a lot of faith in The Duchess of Cambridge

Or the Queen wants her to work.  :wink:

How stunning Malta is gearing up to welcome the Duchess of Cambridge on her first solo foreign tour | Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-2739545/How-stunning-Malta-gearing-welcome-Duchess-Cambridge-solo-foreign-tour.html)

QuoteMalta is a small island - and Valletta is the smallest capital in the EU. But now the former British colony is getting a planet-sized chunk of attention.

Later this month, the Duchess of Cambridge will represent the Queen on her first official overseas trip without Prince William (or Prince George) to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Maltese independence.

Already the island has gone Kate-crazy. People could talk of little else as I travelled around Malta and its neighbour, Gozo.

Quote from: Limabeany on September 01, 2014, 11:04:57 AM
How stunning Malta is gearing up to welcome the Duchess of Cambridge on her first solo foreign tour | Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-2739545/How-stunning-Malta-gearing-welcome-Duchess-Cambridge-solo-foreign-tour.html)

Thank you for the article. I had no idea that the neighboring island was where Odysseus found refuge.  What an exciting destination.

Quote from: sandy on August 28, 2014, 07:41:34 PM

Quote from: Canuck on August 28, 2014, 11:53:26 AM
Sigh.  No one is claiming she's a saint.  I said I would be happy with her as my Queen.  That's not not the same thing as saying she's perfect or infallible.

Assuming you are referring to Camilla, I think that she is controversial and always will be so. As I said there are mixed reactions to her to say the very least.

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Quote from: wannable on August 28, 2014, 02:23:41 PM
Malta is too important for the Queen, hence she's sending Kate.

Malta is dear to the queen for those two years, the 50th independence anniversary, Kate's command of front page news.

I know this has been rehashed. But the Queen did not spend two consecutive years in Malta. For one thing she was pregnant within a few months of marriage and before she went on a maternity leave, she spent time in London awaiting Charles birth.  She went to Malta between the births of Charles and Anne and Anne was conceived there. She went to London for her confinement and Anne was born in London. So she did not just spend two straight years there. She did spend more time there but her children stayed with her parents in London. And in between Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip were active pinch hitting for her father doing major tours and royal duties. She had access to state papers. There was a window of opportunity in Malta but she did not get "two years off" on any consecutive basis.

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Quote from: Lady Adams on August 28, 2014, 03:50:06 PM

Quote from: Macrobug on August 28, 2014, 02:34:26 PM
The question is: in this day and age of instant media with twitter and internet, can they separate the public and the personal image.  Is it even worth while to try.  Fifty years ago royal watchers were satisfied with the occasional photo spread of the "inner workings" in Hello Mag. or a 5 minute clip of carefully filmed family life.  Now people want to know everything and if that void isn't filled with actual info then speculation will do.  It is an age of celebrity.  But is the RF celebrities and do they want to be known as such

Macro, I really appreciate your contributions to this discussion, and I think your point about new media raises a lot of good questions. One I'd like to add is: accountability. Instantaneous news and reporting also raises the public's ability to hold their public figures, from the PM to the BRF, accountable.

I, for one, love the Queen Mother and know she had hundreds of patronages. However, I think that if I got a more accurate and instantaneous record of how she spent money (a lot) and her time, I might have a different opinion.

Well there are degrees of this. William and Kate in their thirties are not full time royals but they partake of the perks which are not "cheap."

The Queen Mum died after a life of public service and nobody ever complained about her work ethic. Unlike Kate and William she worked hard. Big difference there.

May be not but the country did pick up her £8 million debt.

 Eight million pounds of debt???? :eyes:

BTW did anyone else notice that the DM is running old and recent Cambridge tour photos in the article.  I'd rather that they'd shown more of Malta or of BRF members visiting the island.

Quote from: TLLK on September 04, 2014, 03:24:42 AM
Eight million pounds of debt???? :eyes:

What?  I never heard this.  Off to do some research

Nice emoticon Macrobug!!! :)

The Queen supposedly paid her mother's debts after her death, though, as we don't know anything about her will it's all very speculative. On the one hand you read that she left millions in trust funds  to grandchildren/ great-grandchildren etc (and she certainly left Charles much of her jewellery for example) and on the other there are stories about the Comptroller of her Household regularly tearing his hair out!

The Queen Mother certainly appeared carefree about her expenditure in her later years, if I can put it like that. A large staff at her homes, an enjoyment in collecting art, she betted a lot on horses and greyhounds. I don't think she understood money at all and her daughter probably picked up the tab plenty of times.

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The Queen Mother had a staff of 80 in her widowhood. 27 of them lived 'in', rent free, free meals, utilities etc, including a watchman with a lamp who was stationed outside her bedroom at night!

Her Comptroller reportedly broke down in health because of her annual expenditure and her accountant was urged to retire by his wife because of the strain! The Queen and Prince Charles heavily subsidised the Queen Mother's annual income.

Quote from: TLLK on September 04, 2014, 03:37:32 AM
Nice emoticon Macrobug!!! :)

I like it.  But I think that Orchid was hoping that by giving me that one it would ensure the mod lounge was well stocked with wood for the winter.  I don't have the heart to tell her that I really need a chain saw first.  And a wood splitter.  And several strong well built lumberjacks.  In flannel.

I prefer my lumberjacks to be shirtless :sigh:

Flannel shirts are lovely. But personally  I have always been particularly fond of flannel sheets.  :girlblush:


Oh we ARE off topic.  :hijack!: The mods are going to have kittens.  Hehehehe.........

Erm........Malta is lovely and I hope their celebrations go off well  (OK lame attempt but at least it was an attempt)

Or even better, lumberjacks IN flannelette sheets! :coy:

 :vday2:  :girlblush: :girlblush:

[mod]Let's hop back on topic, my lovely flannel kittens!. :happy15: Thank you for your courageous attempt, MB. :clap: [/mod]

Is Malta crazy for Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge? - timesofmalta.com (http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20140906/local/is-malta-crazy-for-kate-middleton-duchess-of-cambridge.534593)

QuoteAccording to The Daily Mail, Malta has gone "Kate-crazy" as the island prepares to greet the Duchess of Cambridge to mark its Golden Jubilee since gaining its independence on September 21, 1964.

The newspaper claimed people could talk of little else as its reporter travelled around Malta and Gozo.

Piqued by this statement, Kim Dalli took to Valletta to join the purported excitement and discovered that the reporter might have been a tad overzealous in his assessment...

So, the Maltese are objecting to being called Kate-crazy...  :hmm:

It's being said, Prince Andrew will go in Kate's place if necessary.

Just wondering when they will make a decision re the visit?  Thursday, at the latest maybe?

Richard Palmer tweeted that a decision would be made on Wednesday.

Maybe this isn't popular opinion  in regards to if kate has a replacement to the malta tour.  I think Princess Beatrice will be a good replacement/representative of the British Monarchy for the Malta Tour, rather than just leaving Malta hanging with nothing. She did a great job during the Germany and Isle of Wight tours. She's respective and empathic towards others from what I heard people say about her. The seem like simple events to accomplish nothing too hard. Princess Beatrice can easily accomplish the Malta tour. .  Just a suggestion on my part, for all I know kate could accomplish the malta tour.  For the record I always found it ironic that the were sending A British royal to celebrate Malta's independence from Britain. ay
anyways here's a pic I made I'm such a dork and yes I realize it probably won't happen
https://hrhprincessbeatriceblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/freevector-badge.jpg

^^ I actually agree with you. :hug:

Bea did a great job in Germany, clearly wants to do royal duties, and has good approach with the public.

I also think the Palace wanted this trip to get the Maltese people's attention, remind them that Malta holds a special place in HM's heart-- and get good PR. Let's be real: Princess Beatrice will draw more media attention than Prince Andrew!

And your campaign badge for Bea is quite cute! You should share it with the royal reporters.

I'll third Lady Adams' seconding. I think she'd do a great job. Let's all cross our fingers they pick her if Kate can't go.

Actually, I agree with @duchesschicana - Bea would be a great replacement. Although, she's now much lower on the pecking order, and may not be 'high profile enough' to replace Kate.

Quote from: Adrienne on September 13, 2014, 02:56:43 AM
I'll third Lady Adams' seconding. I think she'd do a great job. Let's all cross our fingers they pick her if Kate can't go.

God no, it would set a precedent and no one wants Fergis'e daughters doing royal duties,.

Even though I'm against expanding the "working" royals, at this point, just send anyone that's willing and able who will commit themselves to it.

Short flight during the weekend, Princess Anne or the Duke of Cambridge may be an option.

While I agree that Beatrice or Eugenie would be a great substitute, I wouldn't count on it happening. I'll expect either William or one of his uncles or aunt.

You're probably right PW will be a most likely candidate if indeed kate can't go. Just figure it'd be a nice chance for Bea ^^

QuoteHer first solo overseas royal visit to Malta next week is now looking in doubt.

The Duchess is very keen to go if she can, which is why she is leaving it until the last minute to make a decision
Royal insider
A Kensington Palace spokesman said her attendance "will be kept under review and a decision taken closer to the time."

A royal insider said: "The Duchess is very keen to go if she can, which is why she is leaving it until the last minute to make a decision.

"It's very much a case of taking each day as it comes. If she can go, she will go - it has been in the planning for several months and she really doesn't want to miss it."

It is thought Prince William will go in Kate's place if she doesn't feel well enough.

A cite from a Harry article.  The Prince thanked Britain for the success of the paralympic event | UK | News | Daily Express (http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/510651/Prince-Harry-vows-annual-BRITISH-Invictus-Games)

I don't see the Duchess going, unfortunately.

I think it will be Prince Andrew.  Even so it's possible Beatrice, may not wish to go!

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Double post auto-merged: September 14, 2014, 11:19:41 AM

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Catherine's doctors know full well, that if they give the green light for her to go to Malta, and it all goes horribly wrong, they will bear a public backlash for that.  Also, their credibility as doctors, acting for her, may be called into question!  I think they will go for the safer option, which cannot be called into question, and advise the visit be cancelled for her!

I vote that Lupo goes to Malta to represent the BRF. He's cute, no problems with accidentally showing skin or giving speeches He can't do worse than his mistress!

Buried in an article that Camilla Tominey did with Prince Harry about IG (The Prince thanked Britain for the success of the paralympic event | UK | News | Daily Express (http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/510651/Prince-Harry-vows-annual-BRITISH-Invictus-Games)) is this:

QuoteA royal insider said: "The Duchess is very keen to go if she can, which is why she is leaving it until the last minute to make a decision.

"It's very much a case of taking each day as it comes. If she can go, she will go - it has been in the planning for several months and she really doesn't want to miss it."

It is thought Prince William will go in Kate's place if she doesn't feel well enough.

Duchess Kate to decide Malta tour by mid-week
Pregnant Kate Middleton to decide Malta tour - hellomagazine.com (http://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2014091420943/pregnant-kate-middleton-malta-tour/)

Articles says if PW would go I'm praying to fill for Kate finger cross we have wait and see

Quote from: Curryong on September 14, 2014, 11:29:52 AM
I vote that Lupo goes to Malta to represent the BRF. He's cute, no problems with accidentally showing skin or giving speeches He can't do worse than his mistress!

:goodpost: :banana: :windsor1:

Quote from: Limabeany on September 04, 2014, 08:14:02 AM
Let's hop back on topic, my lovely flannel kittens!.  :happy15: Thank you for your courageous attempt, MB.  :clap:

Flannel kittens love it!

"

Tuesday, 16 September 2014, 08:34

Prince Harry is most likely to replace the Duchess of Cambridge to represent the Royal Family at the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Independence.

No official decision has been made public yet, but it is probable that Kate Middleton will have to renounce to their first solo trip abroad because she is suffering from morning sickness in the early stages of her second pregnancy.

Prince Harry will be taking over almost all the functions that were scheduled to take place on Saturday and Sunday.

An official decision is expected to be made in the coming hours, or at the latest tomorrow.

Prince Harry has already cancelled his weekend appointments, making it more probable that he will be the one who will replace his sister-in-law.

"----via allthingscatherineandmary.tumblr.com


YASSSSS , i love seeing harry  :vday4:

No way she is going so why the dramatics just come out and say it  :notamused: ... Harry better be at the Tropic destination he DESERVES to be and not be Kate's replacement ... The Duke of York seems to be the most likely option ...

It's only for two days, besides it person said he's already canceled his other engagements meaning would be doing work anyways. I Catherine can't make it then bring the RF secret weapon who just had an amazing event showcase in the UK recently anyways.

Maltese tabloid rumor...copy/paste, spread.

British High Commissioner said the rumor is unfounded, local Maltese authority said Wednesday will be decision day. They are working closely with the BHC, for now the Duchess is sticking to the plan.

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Double post auto-merged: September 16, 2014, 11:36:54 AM

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Emily Andrews prediction, RC for The Sun.

Emily Andrews (@byEmilyAndrews) tweeted at 1:56pm - 15 Sep 14:

I'm going to call Malta (gulp): Wills will go, not Kate. She's desperate to go,but a pregnant lady has to put health first. We'll know wed. (Emily Andrews on Twitter: "I'm going to call Malta (gulp): Wills will go, not Kate. She's desperate to go,but a pregnant lady has to put (https://twitter.com/byEmilyAndrews/status/511581949954387968))

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Double post auto-merged: September 16, 2014, 11:38:23 AM

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Emily Andrews (@byEmilyAndrews) tweeted at 2:27pm - 15 Sep 14:

@rozlaws def not! That's why I don't think she'll go-if you're preggers & sick there's no way you can do yr job properly. No loo-dashing! (Emily Andrews on Twitter: "@rozlaws def not! That's why I don't think she'll go-if you're preggers & sick there's no way you can (https://twitter.com/byEmilyAndrews/status/511589612440260608))

Willy going instead of his wife would make more sense than Harry ...

Makes sense for William but if his training begins I could see his brother, uncles, or aunt being a great replacement.

Round about 5th August 2014, Robert Jobson of the Evening Standard said that he did not believe the pregnancy rumours, as the Duchess was going to Malta in September, and he did not believe the trip would happen if she was pregnant.  No mention was made of the HG condition.  He just said that a pregnant Kate would not be able to go, thereby dismissing the pregnancy rumours, as she was going to go.

Now a pregnancy has been announced, it appears Robert Jobson may still be right.  I doubt an announcement tomorrow morning, Wednesday, 17 September, will confirm she is going to Malta.   

Again, I think its going to be Prince Andrew!

I do think it's likely that Kate will not be able to go.  Very unfortunate to have to miss this trip, but even if she's started to feel better I don't think they'll want to risk her getting ill again while there or having to skip some of the events.  Better for everyone I think if a replacement is sent. 

We should know on Wednesday if Kate is well enough to go to Malta. If she is not, who do you think the British Family will send? Leave your vote!

Does it differ from who you would like to see sent? Leave a comment!

[mod] For a little fun: we should know on Wednesday if Kate is well enough to go to Malta. If she is not, who do you think the British Family will send? Leave your vote in this new poll (http://www.royalinsight.net/forum/index.php?topic=71837.0). :computer: [/mod]

It should be William but since William and Kate/BRF seems to think they should be scarce to seem more valuable, they could send Harry.

I know the replacement won't be Princess Beatrice if kate indeed decides not to go, but I think Princess Beatrice will be a good replacement/representative of the British Monarchy for the Malta Tour.. She did a great job during the Germany and Isle of Wight tours. She’s respective and empathic towards others from what I heard people say about her during her charity events. The Malta tour seems like simple events to accomplish nothing too hard. Princess Beatrice can easily accomplish the Malta tour. .  Only a suggestion on my part, for all I know kate could accomplish the Malta tour. I know most likely they’d send someone else of higher ranking like Prince William etc. Just thought it’d be a nice chance for Bea.
Bea for Malta Pic: https://hrhprincessbeatriceblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/freevector-badge.jpg

^^ I think you should make the "Bea for Malta" your profile pic!

Maybe they'll send the last-resort royals, Edward and Sophie.   :wellduh:

Edward and Sophie are in Canada and I don't think they will be back in time.

Think it will be William . He has been hunting in Scotland ( went last Thursday ) Don't know how long he was there . Will can go and say how much Kate wanted to go . 10 engagements but close together  Just Hello to 3 different people is 3 . I think she would want to go on one hand and if she does not can not do anything for even longer

Went with the safe choice and voted for William.

^ Wasn't William supposed to be training? That was originally what described why he couldn't go with Kate.

Yeah I think it would make sense for William to go in per place although i would like to see Bea get the job.

Quote from: Lady Adams on September 16, 2014, 11:56:23 PM
^ Wasn't William supposed to be training? That was originally what described why he couldn't go with Kate.

He is training at Balmoral, training himself (as he does every year) to blow game birds out of the sky!

Isn't William supposed to be doing ambulance copter flying? And with all the articles about how sick Kate is, it would not look very nice for him to leave her while he travels to Malta.

One if the Royal reporters said he is currently doing the theory training for his helicopter course.  I assume that can be adjusted to his schedule somewhat and certainly wouldn't interfere with weekends.

To be fair, "William isn't going because he's expected to have started his new job" was press speculation and doesn't appear (so far as I can tell) to have come from the palace itself.

^It's also logical. The palace said William was starting training in September. Kate was going to Malta alone in Sept.
Logic says it is due to William's training schedule.  :shrug:

He arrived for his training a few weeks late last time, so...  :shrug:

I think it should be William.  In fact, this tour should have been William and Kate, and William should have been told that he wasn't going to be allowed to put off being a more productive member of the Firm. 

However, I'd rather see Harry go instead, just because we've seen that he takes his duties as a royal seriously, while at the same time, not taking himself seriously, if that makes any sense

Yes, it does.  :hug:

Malta newspaper

Prince Harry set to replace Duchess of Cambridge for Malta trip - The Malta Independent (http://www.independent.com.mt/mobile/2014-09-16/news/prince-harry-set-to-replace-duchess-of-cambridge-for-malta-trip-6596952064/)//

Were there any other engagements for Kate, after the Malta trip?

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Double post auto-merged: September 17, 2014, 10:22:45 AM

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I assume whoever is going will have to be ready to fly out on Friday.

No news from Clarence House, as yet!  Is Kate in Bucklebury now?

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Double post auto-merged: September 17, 2014, 01:18:26 PM

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I'm sure I am probably in the minority, but I think Malta are being treated rather shabbily by Clarence House at still having to wait with still no decision at this late stage. 

I don't remember anything on the calendar except for Remembrance Day.  Usually smaller engagements (ones that aren't annual events planned way in advance, like that) aren't announced until a few weeks before they take place.  Since she's been sick for the past 2-3 weeks and they've had to cancel a lot of appearances, I think they're waiting to schedule anything new until they know she'll be feeling up to it.

As for Malta, I'm sure they understand.  Maltese officials are doubtless in communication with the BRF and likely have a lot more information than the general public does at this stage.

Rebecca English (@RE_DailyMail) tweeted at 7:16am - 16 Sep 14:

@rafegirl @DashRoyal @royalfocus1 there was a very genuine desire to leave it to the 'last minute' in the hope that she could. (Rebecca English on Twitter: "@rafegirl @DashRoyal @royalfocus1 there was a very genuine desire to leave it to the 'last minute' in the hope (https://twitter.com/RE_DailyMail/status/511843439584215040))

Rebecca English (@RE_DailyMail) tweeted at 5:05am - 17 Sep 14:

We'll find out soon if the Duchess of Cambridge is well enough to go to Malta on Sat. If she isn't, Prince William will step in I am told. (Rebecca English on Twitter: "We'll find out soon if the Duchess of Cambridge is well enough to go to Malta on Sat. If she isn't, Prince (https://twitter.com/RE_DailyMail/status/512172938142171136))

Emily Andrews (@byEmilyAndrews) tweeted at 5:55am - 17 Sep 14:

Great Kate Wait (#52): announcement on Kate going to Malta not til late this afternoon. I called it for Wills going-if she does, gutsy lady. (Emily Andrews on Twitter: "Great Kate Wait (#52): announcement on Kate going to Malta not til late this afternoon. I called it for Wills going-if she (https://twitter.com/byEmilyAndrews/status/512185672518864896))

Okay I want to make Princess Michael of Kent my wild card choice. :happy15:

^Brilliant choice, @TLLK.

Apparently they are consulting with doctors tonight and the announcement will be made tomorrow morning.  Royal reporters are saying that Kate desperately wants to go, but if she can't it will definitely be Will.

I think it is better she not go and have someone else replace here.  That would be better than having to pull out while in Malta and no one there to continue


Richard Palmer @RoyalReporter     ·   56m   

Kensington Palace now says a final decision will be announced tomorrow on whether Kate will go to Malta. She and William will decide tonight

This is all PR if she goes or does not go
If she goes how brave she waited to the last minute
If she does not how brave she waited to the last minute

They know already  such a joke and very rude to Malta  sick not sick she should have said earlier what she was doing . Will and her are a nightmare .  Such drama a doctor would have know by now if she was capable of during the trip . Lol

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Double post auto-merged: September 17, 2014, 07:18:24 PM

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When is that wedding in Italy? Think the stag party was last weekend

I couldn't disagree more, robynrose.  I think Kate understands this was a big responsibility and really wants to go, but obviously if it is too risky for her and the baby then she'll need to cancel.  To make a decision her doctors would have needed to see how she was doing now, not a week or two ago -- was the bed rest helping, was she still too weak, has she shown sustained improvement or has she gotten worse again, etc. 

I'm not sure how this is rude to Malta.  Their independence celebrations will go ahead as planned whether it is Kate or Will who takes part. 

I'm sure there is a PR function to this announcement, especially given the timing and vote tomorrow. Like any company, the Firm has corporate communications for this reason.

Do you really think anyone believes that whether or not Kate announces she'll be going to Malta for a two-day tour is going to have an effect on the independence vote?  Because I definitely don't.   :orchid:

Rebecca English says they were always told the decision would be made at the last moment, and she seems very convinced that there really hasn't been a decision yet and that it will be sorted out with Kate's doctor tonight.  Ditto Emily Andrews.  Others like Richard Palmer and the Telegraph correspondent are saying they think the delay means she's feeling somewhat better and there's a chance she'll be able to do it.

Ridiculous ...

^Any journalist or PR rep worth their salt would say that all outside factors (especially elections) must be considered when making public announcements about public figures.

Are there people who think it will affect the vote? I cannot say that all of the British population wouldn't, so the logical answer is: yes. I'm sure some people believe that if Kate draws negative press for not going, some people may vote "yes."

Do *I* think it will affect the vote? No. But their communications team will factor in all current events, especially Scotland, when deciding when/how to make any announcements. It's their job.

I honestly don't think that an announcement about a royal visit to another country is going to be a PR disaster.  It is possible to have more than one news event happening at the same time.  People are able to handle it.

^^ I agree, Macro. My point was, and is, that their communications team has been involved since the beginning.

I don't disagree that their communications team is involved (as it is in all announcements about Royal engagements).  I just don't believe that the timing is being dictated by PR issues rather than the fact that Kate really wants to go if she can and they needed to wait as long as possible before making a decision so that they could gauge her health.

Certainly their media communication officer needs to be aware of what is happening.  I just don't think that the Scottish vote and Kate going/not going to Malta have any bearing on one another.  Her announcement isn't going to take away from the vote or effect it in anyway.  The media may be diverted for a millisecond but the world attention will be on the vote, not Kate.  And the announcement doesn't need to be done tomorrow in hopes that it is ignored like they do with some announcements that are about a hot potato/controversial topic.  We care here, royal watchers care and Malta organizers care.  The rest of the world doesn't give two hoots. 

My background is in journalism, and so perhaps I see a different side than others.

@Macrobug & @Canuck, we can all agree to disagree, as with many things on the Forum, we'll never know who is correct.  :hug: :hug:

Quote from: robynrose on September 17, 2014, 07:16:09 PM
This is all PR if she goes or does not go
If she goes how brave she waited to the last minute
If she does not how brave she waited to the last minute

They know already  such a joke and very rude to Malta  sick not sick she should have said earlier what she was doing . Will and her are a nightmare .  Such drama a doctor would have know by now if she was capable of during the trip . Lol

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Double post auto-merged: September 17, 2014, 07:18:24 PM

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When is that wedding in Italy? Think the stag party was last weekend

I agree with this. It's almost amusing actually.

i second that motion  :clap: princess pushy it is...

now the tabs are claiming Kate feels a bit better - I am so  tired of this drama - remember when the RF seemed so well organized? - send a fruit basket - after all they are celebrating the 50th anniversary of getting rid of royals -

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Double post auto-merged: September 18, 2014, 07:24:46 PM

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so Will is going now ? 

Kate makes her decision can't going Malta because she in eight weeks pregnant so she sends William to replace her on oversea trips but Kate still sick it's doctor's decision if Kate isn't pregnant they she can travel if she pregnant can't travel due doctor says..

 :goodpost:

Quote from: Lady Adams on September 17, 2014, 08:05:55 PM
^Any journalist or PR rep worth their salt would say that all outside factors (especially elections) must be considered when making public announcements about public figures.

Are there people who think it will affect the vote? I cannot say that all of the British population wouldn't, so the logical answer is: yes. I'm sure some people believe that if Kate draws negative press for not going, some people may vote "yes."

Do *I* think it will affect the vote? No. But their communications team will factor in all current events, especially Scotland, when deciding when/how to make any announcements. It's their job.

[mod] :hi: Hi Folks. As Kate was unable to visit Malta - this thread is now locked. However, William did - and here is the thread : Duke of Cambridge - Visit to Malta (http://www.royalinsight.net/forum/index.php?topic=71856.0)[/mod]