"The family needs you!" KATE GETS HER ORDERS

The pressure's on as the King intends to use the princess' popularity

- Judy Kean

The Princess of Wales has been praised for her “star quality” since marrying into the royal family 12 years ago. Now the King wants to capitalise on his daughter-in-law’s popularity as he works out what the future of the monarchy will look like.

His Majesty is planning an urgent summit with his heir, Prince William, and Princess Kate, to discuss the direction the royal institution is expected to go over the next year. Insiders say it’s not just future king William who is expected to be a pivotal part of his dad’s reign – his wife is going to be key given the esteem in which she’s held around the world.

Her down-to-earth nature and ability to relate to people from all walks of life, as well as her graciousness, will be crucial when it comes to representing the royal family on the world stage.

A source close to Charles, 74, says he’s been working with advisors on the family’s priorities as his reign enters its second year, and will meet with his family at Balmoral – usually a retreat where they relax during their summer holiday – to fill them in on his forward planning. Focusing on the Commonwealth is at the top of his to-do list.