Firm Changes - The Real Purpose Of The Pakistan Tour

WILLIAM & KATE ARE READY TO REIGN!

- Anthony Macintosh

When it comes to the royal family, it’s often the tiny details that hint at who’s where in the hierarchy. Take the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s tour of Pakistan, for instance.

Until now, only the Queen (93) and Charles, Prince of Wales, have brought a doctor with them when they travel abroad, in case the monarch or heir need special medical attention.

Now, Prince William and Kate (37) have joined this elite, signalling their inexorable rise up the regal pecking order.

“The palace insisted,” says one of their circle. “If he’s essentially acting on behalf of the Queen, he needs to be given the same privileges and protections. They’ll have a medic with them now every time they travel.”

But William (37) is his own man, with down-to-earth views akin to those of his future subjects. When he was told that a doctor must join the party, adds his friend, “The duke replied that if one had to come, he’d choose who it was. He chose a friend from the East Anglian Air Ambulance.”

The last official royal tour of Pakistan was back in 2006, when Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall went. And both the UK and Pakistan see William and Kate’s visit as a big deal.

More than 1000 police officers were detailed to protect the royal couple during their 1000km journey across the country, with security officers also checking every venue.

Because the security situation in Pakistan is tense, details of their itinerary were only released as engagements took place. As Kensington Palace put it, “This is the most complex tour undertaken by the duke and duchess to date, given the logistical and security considerations.” Royal watcher Ingrid Seward adds, “The Pakistan tour is very serious and politically sensitive and it’s a great honour that Kate and William were asked to do it.”