Is it principle with an al or with an le? A curious question, I know, but that’s what people around the Seven Network are asking after the decision by Seven’s wandering personality, Tony Squires, to stand aside from hosting the the network’s coverage this Friday night of Charlie and Camilla’s hitching in the auld country.

Squires, along with reporter Anna Coren. were announced as the Seven’s hosts last Thursday for itscoverage that’s due to start at 9pm on Friday.

But last Friday, news from the Martin Place bunker said Squires was no longer involved. He cited his staunch republican beliefs as being behind his reason to withdraw. Late night and impending Sunday morning newsreader, Simon Reeve, will replace him.

It’s an interesting stand by Squires, but it raises the question of what he’s really going to do at Seven. The 110% Tony Squires rip-off of his ABC show The Fat is dead. He hosted the Olympics from a Melbourne studio and hosted an Edinburgh Tattoo telecast a few weeks ago, also with Ms Coren.

Meanwhile over at rival Nine, there’s going to be some fast-moving footwork if they’re to capture the wedding live. Nine is not crossing to the wedding celebrations until 11pm, after the Friday night AFL and NRL football has finished.

You’ve got to keep things in perspective.