A royal spokesman said that the law suit had been initiated in France and will be for invasion of privacy.
The editor of Closer, Laurence Pieau, was however unrepentant, saying the two royals “were visible from the street”.
“The photos concerned are not in the least shocking. They show a young woman tanning topless, like the millions of women you see on beaches,” said Laurence Pieau.
She described the reaction to the topless photos as “a bit exaggerated”. That created the suspicion that the British monarchy was not so much opposed to the duchess’s topless sunbathing, but are instead furious over this picture where she gets rid of the bikini bottom.
The caption for this photo reads: “Cream for the buttocks? That’s when you feel like removing the bottom piece.”
The duke and duchess, who were relaxing at the French chateau of the queen’s cousin, Lord Linley, are apparently very annoyed.
The magazine’s caption next to the photos state: “Like you have never seen them before. No fixed little smiles and understated dresses. On vacation Kate forgets everything.”
Prime Minister David Cameron’s officiale spokesman said: “The view of Downing Street is that they have a right to their privacy.”