Kate Middleton has been given a security pass to Clarence House in what has been described as a ‘clear step’ towards putting her rekindled relationship with Prince William on an ‘official footing’.

The pass, held by members of the Royal Household, will allow her to come and go as she pleases, giving her an independence and a status that she has not so far enjoyed. The Mail on Sunday understands that the decision to give Kate this ‘golden ticket’ to the Royal residences was taken during a recent review of Clarence House security.

One well-placed insider said: “Kate being given a pass to Clarence House is a very clear and practical step towards putting her relationship with Prince William on a more official footing. It’s a logistical way of bringing her into the fold.”

The senior source went on to reveal that plans for William and Kate’s engagement are once more being discussed at the highest level: “Things are a lot more imminent than you understand…plans for William and Kate have been ring-fenced.”

For Kate, the extension of a security pass is the most significant and personal privilege that she has been afforded to date. She has in effect been given a key to the Royal residences. Her visits need no longer be heralded by William or his bodyguards requesting her name be put on a list of visitors held by the protection officer at the gates. Nor need she go through the rigmarole of presenting any identifying documents other than her pass.

Last night Clarence House refused to comment. (via Daily Mail)