The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have reportedly dropped plans to attend the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand later this year. The couple was due to attend in October and had made arrangements to travel to Australia afterwards but have now changed plans because they do not want to be embroiled in a political row.
New Zealand is due to hold their general election in November and Prime Minister John Key, leader of the conservative National Party, has been accused by the opposition of trying to use the visit boost his popularity. A royal source confirmed the trip had been cancelled. Traditionally the Royal family have chosen not to visit Commonwealth countries during general elections because they don’t want to be seen favouring one party.
Key, who attended Prince William’s wedding to Kate in April, had recently raved about the Duchess and said she told him she was keen to visit New Zealand. The Duke and Duchess may rearrange their tour of New Zealand and Australian visit for next year when other members of the Royal family, including Prince Harry, will be sent to Commonwealth countries as part of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
