Charles ‘jealous of William and Kate coverage’

Is Prince Charles jealous of the attention William and Kate enjoyed during their 11-day jaunt across Canada and California? That's the theory posed today by the Sunday Mirror, which claims that Charles is still upset by "the small crowds and modest coverage" he and his wife Camilla received when they made a "gruelling" visit to Canada two years ago.

According to the Mirror, Charles is now seeking a "makeover" so that he can compete with his elder son and daughter-in-law for attention.

Phil Dampier, a writer of books about the royal family, is quoted as saying: "Charles felt overshadowed by Diana and now it seems he feels overshadowed by their son."

Government insiders have told the paper that Prince Charles's fears have been echoed in Downing Street, where it is believed William and Kate's popularity could overshadow the Queen's Diamond Jubilee next year.

However, all this anxiety is ignoring two glaring facts: first, that William and Kate have already announced, immediately after their return from Canada and the US, they intend to maintain a low profile for the time being and, second, Kate has made it clear she intends to start a family.

Though to do that, she needs to put on some weight, according to fertility experts questioned by today's People newspaper. The Duchess of Cambridge looks far too thin to conceive, they say. ·