Why Kate Middleton and Prince William chose George Alexander Louis for royal baby

Prince William and Kate Middleton have named their baby son George Alexander Louis.

When the baby rules the kingdom, perhaps not for half a century or more, he will be King George VII. Until then, he will be known formally as His Royal Highness Prince George of Cambridge.

Prince William and Kate Middleton came to a relatively quick decision yesterday about the hugely anticipated name. George had long been the favorite, with bookmakers shortening the odds in recent days.

While there will be much speculation as to the inspiration behind the names, the Kensington Palace officials were quick to insist it was simply “because they liked them – no more no less”.

According to reports, Prince William and Kate Middleton had already decided by the time they introduced the Queen to her heir – and third great-grandchild – at Kensington Palace yesterday morning.

There is no royal protocol which dictates the sovereign must be given approval, but it is believed the couple discussed their choice with the Queen during their 30-minute meeting.

They then told other members of their immediate family before making the news public at 6.15 p.m.

A statement issued by their office at Kensington Palace said: “The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to announce that they have named their son George Alexander Louis.

“The baby will be known as His Royal Highness Prince George of Cambridge.”

It took only two days for the name to be released, compared with seven when Prince William was born in 1982.