The Prince of Wales is “both pleased and surprised” that his mother the Queen has invited Camilla Parker Bowles to join her in the royal box at the upcoming “Prom At The Palace” classical concert at Buckingham Palace next month. The invitation to the Golden Jubilee gala – apparently made without Charles’s prior knowledge – will mark the first time the couple have appeared in public with the Queen.
The Queen decided to make the remarkable gesture - widely seen as a clear endorsement of the relationship - after discussing the issue with her treasurer, Sir Michael Peat, who is organising the June 1 event. “The invitation was done entirely at the behest of the Queen in conjunction with Sir Michael,” said a representative from St James’s Palace. “Prince Charles was both pleased and surprised.”
Camilla will be joining senior members of the royal family in the royal box, seated next to Charles but at a discreet distance from the monarch. “Both the Prince of Wales and Camilla Parker Bowles are delighted,” said a courtier at St James’s Palace.
Prince Charles’s companion, who serves as the President of UK’s National Osteoporosis Society, is also increasing her public profile outside British royal circles. Over the weekend she attending the international conference on osteoporosis in Lisbon, invited by the conference’s organiser, Queen Rania of Jordan. Camilla, whose mother and grandmother suffered from the disorder, called for more spending to research the debilitating disease.
The newfound royal recognition of the relationship has increased speculation that marriage is on the cards for Charles and Camilla. “There are no plans,” said a St James’s Palace official, “but who knows what the future may hold.”
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
