Belgium is outraged once again after Prince Philip, son of king Albert and future heir to the Belgian throne, verbally attacked a national TV executive and a leading newspaper editor last night during the annual Royal New Years reception, threatening to deny them “access to the palace unless they dropped their recent (unbiased) exposure of visible royal ‘incidents’ “.
When both editors tried to explain the concept of a free press, a basic part of democracy, Prince Philip lost his temper and had to be physically restrained by his wife (…).
Prime minister Verhofstadt expressed “grave concern” about this incident, both to the press and to the Royal Palace. Several observers believe Philip is not suited to become the next reigning monarch. Questioned by a leading newspaper, 77% of all Belgians feel the behavior of some members of the royal family is no longer acceptable. There is currently a political majority in favor of curtailing the constitutional position of the Belgian monarchy.
On a personal note: it’s freezing in Antwerp, causing all the classic minor inconveniences. I recently had to quit my diving training, making me wonder how to find an alternative in order to fill all those free hours. All suggestions appreciated
This blog is not affiliated with or endorsed by the city of Antwerp, Belgium.
Salsa lessons?
They’ll keep you fit, and you get to dance with pretty latinas
Comment by clitemnistra — September 4, 2007 @ 6:37 pm
Thanks for commenting, clitemnistra.
Fortunately, I managed to find a way to spend my leisure time - even the frost is gone, 9 months later
Comment by Peter — September 4, 2007 @ 7:16 pm