Prince William
Emotional moment: In Scotland he forgets the royal rules
© Dana Press
Prince William and Duchess Catherine are currently in the service of the crown in Scotland and once again prove that they stand for the modernization of the royal family: in a touching moment, Prince Charles’ son throws the royal rules of conduct overboard.
Prince William, 39, and Duchess Catherine, 40, conquer the hearts of royal fans with their trip to Scotland and, as so often, ensure enchanting shots that go around the world. During one appointment, the heir to the throne refrained from formal handshakes and instead followed his feelings.
Prince William: Touching moment in Glasgow
On Wednesday 11 May 2022, Prince William and Duchess Catherine visited the Wheatley Group in Glasgow, Scotland’s leading housing, care and property management group which is tackling homelessness and supporting vulnerable tenants during the cost of living crisis. There, the Duke of Cambridge met a special fan: A resident, who according to “Mirror” is William Burns, 66, could hardly believe that he was standing in front of the Royal and was struggling with his emotions.
Prince William hugs pensioner William Burns in Glasgow
© Dana Press
At that moment, Prince William followed his humanity and empathy instead of royal protocol – and hugged the pensioner. Visibly moved by the gesture, the 66-year-old finally burst into tears in Prince William’s arms. Prince Charles’ son, 73, appeared to be enjoying this real moment and being close to the people.
According to the royal code of conduct, such an intimate hug is not provided for. A formal handshake, bow, or curtsy is provided for encounters with royalty. Members of the British royal family are advised to exercise restraint on public appointments, especially with regard to touching. But Kate and William are said to plan to do away with these “outdated royal rules” anyway.
Duchess Catherine + Prince William: Another violation of the rules
The Cambridges committed yet another rule violation during their visit to the Wheatley Group. Usually, the royals chat briefly with their fans, who gather in the form of a crowd, and walk down the front row relatively quickly. In Glasgow, however, William and Kate took their time, chatted cheerfully to fans and shook numerous hands.
Prince William and Duchess Catherine in Glasgow
© Dana Press
Most surprisingly, Duchess Catherine and Prince William allowed a woman to take a selfie with them. Beaming into the phone camera, the royal couple posed with the female fan in a clear break with royal protocol. It seems that William and Kate are already slowly putting their modernization plan into action. One thing is certain: cordiality and closeness to the people are more important to them than the royal rules.
Sources used: mirror.co.uk, Dana Press