opinion

Kate and William take action against Prince George's possible stalker.

Kate and William begin legal proceedings against a harassing photographer.

Prince William and Kate Middleton are taking action against a photographer who has been harassing Prince George and his nanny, in an attempt to protect their privacy.

Express reports that the royals have explained the photographer has been following 1-year-old George during his daily routines and would like him to have an “ordinary life”.

Kate Middleton, Prince William and Prince George.

A spokesperson for William and Kate today released a statement after speculation that the photographer was taking pictures of George in London’s Battersea Park. There is also a report the photographer was waiting outside Buckingham Palace, where Prince George on occasion takes a swim in the pool, before being told to move along by police.

The royal’s spokesperson said:

"The Duke and Duchess have taken legal steps to ask that an individual ceases harassing and following both Prince George and his nanny as they go about their ordinary daily lives.

An incident last week has prompted their royal highnesses to seek reasonable assurances from the individual about his behaviour. The individual was spotted at a central London park in the vicinity of Prince George, who was removed from the park immediately.

There is reason to suspect that the individual may have been placing Prince George under surveillance and monitoring his daily routines for a period of time.

The Duke and Duchess understand the particular public role that Prince George will one day inherit, but, while he is young, he must be permitted to lead as ordinary a life as possible. No parent would tolerate the suspicion of someone pursuing and harassing their child and carer whilst their child is playing in a public park or going about their daily activities."

Prince George.

This is the first time the royals have tried to stop photographers taking pictures in public parks. Lawyers defending the photographer have written to the palace denying the allegation of harassment.

The law firm explained there had been no breach of privacy as photography in public areas is not prohibited. The law firm said, "Our client has not acted unlawfully in any way. He has not harassed or intimidated Prince George, his nanny or any other person. Nor would he wish to."

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