William and Kate ‘saddened’ over nude photo claim

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — 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 writer Sean Yoong contributed to this report.