KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia -- The British
palace will investigate a French magazine's claim of having topless
photographs of Prince William's wife, Kate, an aide to the royal couple
said Friday.
The couple's tour of the Far East
and South Pacific to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee was
marred by Closer magazine's announcement Thursday that it will publish
topless photos of Kate. The magazine claims the pictures were taken on a
guesthouse terrace in France where William and Kate were on vacation
this month.
A royal aide told The Associated
Press in Kuala Lumpur on Friday that William and Kate "are saddened to
learn about the alleged photos."
"Once we
investigate the authenticity of the photos, we will make our decision
about what to do," he said on condition of anonymity, citing protocol.
William and Kate appeared unfazed throughout their public appearances in Malaysia's largest city Friday.
They
started the day by visiting a mosque, where Kate donned a headscarf and
long-sleeved dress. They then smiled and shook hands with some of the
hundreds of people who gathered to see them at a park near Kuala
Lumpur's famous Petronas Twin Towers.
William delivered a brief speech to corporate leaders at a luncheon to underscore both countries' strong business ties.
The
couple also attended a tea party hosted by Britain's high commissioner
to Malaysia that included guests such as Malaysian-born fashion designer
Jimmy Choo and actress Michelle Yeoh.
"Kate is a fashion idol and an inspiration to our local designers," Choo told reporters at the event.
Associated Press