Princess Diana's former private secretary Patrick Jephson is presenting a new two-part documentary on the inner goings-on at the royal household. The probing analysis purports to expose the truth of sometimes difficult relations between Prince Charles and his late wife, and between St James's Palace and Buckingham Palace.
Mr Jephson is determined to redeem himself after the publication of his memoirs drew stark criticism from royal circles. "My mother's trust has been betrayed," said Prince William at the time, though Jephson insisted his work was not malicious: "My book didn't show her as a saint, but it was affectionate and it was true."
His new Channel 4 series follows the activities of the courtier class that surrounds the senior royals, and is expected to provoke yet more controversy. In particular, it alleges that the Queen is angry over Prince Charles' efforts to win public approval for his relationship with Camilla Parker-Bowles.
While Charles is bracing himself for another round of media speculation, royal insiders speak of a détente between the two palaces. Indeed it is said that after last months' controversial Peat Report, relations have improved dramatically between St James's and Bucking ham Palace.
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