William, Kate update royal protocol for Prince Louis to avoid Harry's past

As private celebrations kick off at Forest Lodge to mark an important day for the youngest Waleses, there are some crucial changes put in place.

Prince Louis, who marked his eighth birthday on Thursday, has thoroughly entertained royal fans with his antics and the funny faces he pulls at serious royal events.

The young prince is not only a beloved member for his parents and siblings but also for the extended royal family. However, Louis has shown a remarkable change in his attitude in these public-facing events, which means there is a protocol to be implemented.

The Prince and Princess of Wales are doting parents to their three children, but they also pay close attention to the royal dynamics and how the special bond between the siblings could see cracks, just like with their uncle Prince Harry.

Harry has spoken extensively about being the spare to his elder brother in his bombshell memoir. Learning from the mistakes of the past, the future King and Queen have taken some key steps to avoid the matter, per former royal correspondent Jennie Bond.

“It was obvious at Easter when we saw the whole family at Windsor that George isn’t the only one who is getting taller,” Bond said. “The cheeky little boy in shorts was now a very well behaved young Prince Louis in suit and tie.”

She pointed out that there were “no mischievous antics, no tongue poking out at the cameras – in fact Louis hardly looked in the direction of the crowds”.

The expert believes that William and Kate may not have consciously subdued his cheeky side, but Louis is probably now “more aware that he is on public parade. And that could be embarrassing at his age”.

Hence there is a change coming for Louis as he would be “included in most engagements now that we see the other children”.

As for the royal protocol, William and Catherine will “continue their policy of giving their young family as normal and private and upbringing as possible in their position”.