Camilla’s decision has met with approval · 2007-08-27 16:38
The Queen would have sanctioned the Duchess of Cornwall’s decision not to attend a memorial to mark the 10th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death.
Explaining her decision not to attend, Camilla said she was “touched” at her invitation from Princes William and Harry.
”I accepted and wanted to support them,” she said. ”However, on reflection I believe my attendance could divert attention from the purpose of the occasion, which is to focus on the life and service of Diana.”
Royal commentator James Whitaker said he doubted if the princes really wanted Camilla to attend.
“They only wanted her there because she is the wife of their father, whom they adore,” he said. ”We know from Diana’s own lips that she blamed Camilla hugely for the breakdown of the marriage.”
The BBC’s royal correspondent, Nicholas Witchell, said he believed there would be “relief” at Buckingham Palace over Camilla’s decision.
One of Diana’s friends, Rosa Monckton, said it would be “deeply inappropriate” for the duchess to attend Friday’s service. Ingrid Seward, editor of Majesty magazine, said that the service on Friday would have been extremely difficult for the duchess.
Around 500 guests are expected at the thanksgiving service, including more than 30 royals and figures such as Sir Elton John and Prime Minister Gordon Brown, BBC informed.
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