What do you get for the kid who has everything?
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Thursday what the government of Canada’s official gifts to mark the birth of Prince George of Cambridge, the first child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, will be.
"We are pleased to announce a donation to a Canadian child-focused charity to mark the birth of Prince George, and to offer a Canadian-handcrafted blanket, reflective of our country’s rich and diverse culture," Harper said in a statement. "These gifts symbolize our warm ties to our Royal Family, honouring our close and enduring relationship."
The $100,000 donation will be provided at a later date to a Canadian charity seeking to improve the lives of kids.
Harper says a selection of Canadian children’s books in both English and French will also be presented to the young prince on behalf of himself, his wife Laureen, Governor General David Johnston and his wife, Sharon.
The Canadian government did not provide an official gift after the birth of Prince William in 1982. The House of Commons did, however, pass a motion offering congratulations to the Prince and Princess of Wales and Queen Elizabeth II stating that "this event affords the greatest joy and satisfaction to Her faithful Members of the House of Commons."
A porcelain sculpture called "Sacajawea" was apparently provided to Prince Charles and Princess Diana, sparking some controversy when it was revealed that the gift was made in New Jersey.
But former secretary of state Serge Joyal said the sculpture was actually given to the royal couple by the province of Manitoba.
"It is Canadian custom that official gifts are not given on behalf of the Canadian people to mark such events," Joyal said at the time.
Harper, who was quick to offer congratulations to the Duchess of Cambridge after the birth of her son Monday, hasn’t been shy about his desire to strengthen ties with the United Kingdom.
The prime minister was served a slice of humble pie, though, when BBC World News confused Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd as Canada’s leader earlier this week.
But hey, the right gift may be one way to get noticed.
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