Do this, don’t do that: That’s the message journalists covering Prince William and Kate Middleton‘s Royal Tour of Canada this week are getting from the Canadian government, which has issued a whopping 105-page “Media Guide and Itinerary” for reporters that outlines such things as how close photographers should stand from the newlyweds (15 feet!).
First and foremost, states the document, obtained by HollywoodLife.com, is this seemingly strangely-worded rule: “The Royal Couple must not be embarrassed or inconvenienced by photographers, including official photographers.” And that’s just the tip of the royal iceberg!
The document also asks the media to keep their distance from the royals: “Photography and video recording of Their Royal Highnesses must be done from a distance of 15 feet (4.6 meters) at all times.”
For media hoping to snag an interview with William or Kate, dream on: William will offer three speeches and four remarks to Canadians during the tour, but one-on-one interviews won’t be happening. According to the document, “Reporters must not direct questions to the Royal Couple…Their Royal Highnesses do not give interviews during official tours.”
And with sneaky, down-and-dirty tabloids in mind, the Canadian government warns media in the guide, “It is not permitted to attempt to record private conversations of the Royal Couple, including conversations with members of the public during walkabouts. During walkabouts, journalists can follow behind the entourage to address persons who have met Their Royal Highnesses.”
And don’t even think about trying to catch William and Kate inhaling a steak or downing wine: “Photography is not permitted during meals.”
And finally, urges the document, “During free time, the privacy of the Royal Couple must be respected.”
