He contended that as a member of the royal family he should not be required to sign the statement and instead his close adviser signed it.

Is now a close adviser, worked in the spin room during the televised debates, and as a party spokesman during the machinations of the past four days.

However, this suggestion has been dismissed by a close adviser.

He's a trusted and close adviser.

As a particularly close adviser of the king, his actions probably signalled the wishes of the court.