STORY:
Prince William Sought To Open Dome

Prince would symbolize the new millennium and officially open Millennium Dome

Organizers of London's millennium celebrations want 17-year-old Prince William's first official public engagement to be the opening the Millennium Dome in Greenwich. They reportedly see the Prince as a symbol of Great Britain's hopes as the country enters the new millennium.

Despite ongoing negotiations, the organizer's wishes may not happen because of a long-standing policy. According to press reports, the spokesman for Buckingham Palace says Prince William nor Prince Harry will not undertake formal public engagements while they are in full-time education and that would include official millennium celebrations.

It remains possible that Prince William will play a role in the opening ceremony alongside his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth and Premier Tony Blair. His father, Prince Charles is expected to spend the night in Scotland.

One proposal reportedly under consideration by organizers was for Prince William to make a short speech at the opening. However, this is now unlikely, not just because of royal policy but also because of the Dome's poor acoustics.

The Millennium Dome's opening night party will begin around 10pm on New Year's Eve, followed by a huge fireworks and laser show. 10,000 guests will attend the event - half of the guests will be ordinary citizens who won tickets through lotteries with the remaining guests made up of Dome sponsors and VIP's.

Source:

DATE: 8/18/99

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