The Queen’s press office has dismissed claims made in the Sunday
Times that Buckingham and St James’ palaces are to introduce weekly
’lobby style’ briefings for journalists.
A senior Buckingham Palace spokesman said: ’The idea hasn’t even been
discussed. Our approach is that journalists are always briefed on issues
but a weekly briefing would not be feasible.’
Both palaces denied that there was a rift between them on the
matter.
Prince Charles’ aides claim not to have made the comments attributed to
them in the Sunday Times.
However, the Royal Family is introducing a number of measures to improve
press relations. The Buckingham Palace source, who refused to be named,
confirmed that Palace advisers would be allowed to speak on the record
to the press more often.
Folowing public criticism over its handling of the death of Diana,
Princess of Wales, Buckingham Palace will take a more proactive approach
to media relations, working closely with the national media on specific
themed articles and becoming more involved with local media.
The spokesman claims the change in approach is working: ’The Queen and
Prince of Wales have been relaxed on recent visits and the way we
communicate this message is developing,’ he added. However, the Palace
has been criticised in some sections of the media for heavyhanded spin
doctoring of the Prince’s visit to South Africa.
Leader, p9.
