Kate makes first public appearance since Andrew arrest
Catherine, Princess of Wales, made her first public appearance by attending a rugby match since Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest.
Rugby Football Union boss Kate wore an England Rugby scarf over a dark blue jacket to watch England take on Ireland in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations on Saturday.
He was seen chatting with English player Fin Baxter, who was injured on the seats before the match, and Rugby Football Union President Deborah Griffin.
It was the British princess’ first public appearance since Andrew was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of abuse of public office, following allegations made against him following the publication of files on pedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein.
The former duke spent 11 hours in police custody on his 66th birthday before being released as part of an investigation into allegations he shared sensitive information with Epstein while he was Britain’s trade envoy.
A PR expert has suggested that Kate and her husband Prince William will take it upon themselves to rebuild the “integrity of the royal family” damaged by Andrew’s friendship with Epstein.
Public relations and crisis consultant Mark Borkowski asked the couple “how will they ensure the integrity of the royal family?” He said he was faced with the question.
The pressure falls squarely on William’s shoulders to describe what the royal family will be like in the next 50 years.
“The weight of this burden on the reputation of the royal family rests on William and Kate and what they will do,” he said.
William had already said “change is on my agenda” when he ascended the throne, but he may have to open himself and the monarchy to greater scrutiny as long-standing attitudes against the royal family fade away.
The couple were in line with King Charles’ decision to distance the royal family from Andrew by stripping him of his titles last year.
The king issued an emphatic statement just hours after Andrew’s arrest on Thursday, saying “the law must take its course.”
