Princess Catherine Declines Autograph Request During Welsh Visit
Princess Catherine of Wales displayed her characteristic warmth and charm while greeting crowds in Powys, Wales, ahead of St David's Day celebrations. The Princess happily engaged with adoring fans, stopping to chat, shake hands, and even share hugs. However, she encountered one specific request that she had to politely refuse.
On Thursday, during her visit to the Welsh county, a man approached Princess Catherine asking for her autograph. In response, she gently declined the request with a smile. "I can't sign things, I'm so sorry. I can shake your hand, though," she told him. Following this, she offered a brief hug and added, "Nice to meet you," before continuing to greet other royal supporters.
The Real Reason Behind the Refusal
While the exchange might have seemed abrupt to some observers, Princess Catherine was simply adhering to long-standing royal protocol. Members of the British royal family are generally prohibited from signing autographs as a security measure to prevent the risk of forgery. This rule has been in place for decades and is strictly followed by senior royals during public engagements.
This is not the first time Princess Catherine has had to turn down such a request. At the 2022 Chelsea Flower Show, she explained the protocol to school children, stating, "My name's Catherine. I'm not allowed to write my signature, it's just one of those rules."
Other Secret Royal Rules and Protocols
No Selfies
Royal protocol also discourages taking selfies with fans. The concern is twofold: selfies require turning one's back on a royal and standing in very close proximity, both considered potential security risks. Despite this, the rule has been bent on several occasions. For example, Prince William and Princess Catherine broke protocol when they posed for a selfie with the Jamaican bobsleigh team during their royal tour of the Caribbean.
No Touching
Traditionally, members of the public are not meant to touch a royal unless a hand is first offered. Younger royals have taken a more relaxed approach to this rule. It's widely believed that Prince William and Prince Harry followed the example of their mother, the late Princess Diana, who was known for warmly embracing people during engagements. King Charles is also often seen warmly embracing fans and followers during his public appearances.
No Travelling Together
Traditionally, direct heirs to the British throne have not been able to travel together in case of an emergency or accident that could impact the entire royal line. Princess Catherine and Prince William have three children: Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7. However, the rule only applies to the first two direct heirs to the throne—currently Prince William and Prince George. Prince William was the same age when he stopped flying alongside his father, then the Prince of Wales and now King Charles, to protect the monarchy's line of succession.
No Kissing in Public
Public displays of affection are traditionally frowned upon, particularly during official duties or overseas visits where cultural sensitivities are taken into account. However, Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, have often broken from convention and are frequently seen holding hands in public during their engagements.
