Britain's Prince Andrew plans to hire a new press officer to improve his public image. The Duke of York, dubbed the 'Playboy Prince', personally interviewed candidates for the role and has chosen former ITN journalist Ed Perkins.
The prince sees the 32-year-old as the perfect man to restore the nation's faith in him, following a string of negative stories concerning his lavish lifestyle.
A source told Britain's Daily Mail newspaper: "Andrew actually sat in on the interviews of all the candidates who made the final shortlist and asked them lots of questions."
"He was really impressed with Ed and even had a breakfast meeting with him before endorsing his appointment. He liked the fact that he came from a media background, do was keen to get him on board."
Earlier this week, Andrew, 47, came under fire for spending $12,000 of taxpayers' money to fly to a golf tournament. The duke - also nicknamed 'Air Miles Andy' for his frequent flying - traveled on the Queen's Flight airplane to and from Scotland to attend the British Open golf championship at Carnoustie.
The HS 125 twin-engine jet can carry up to seven passengers, and is supposed to be used only by royals and senior ministers on vital business. Andrew's spokesman told Britain's The Sun newspaper the royal was on official business, standing in for Royal and Ancient Golf Club captain Michael Lunt, who died in May.
They added the duke shared the outward flight with his sister Princess Anne, who was also on an official engagement.
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