Crisis management is nothing new – but it has evolved. Each month, we’ll be delving into history and asking you to apply modern day communications wisdom to an olden day crisis.

The King became seriously deranged in November 1788, speaking for hours without pause, foaming at the mouth and even shaking hands with a tree in the belief it was the King of Prussia – all potentially disastrous for the standing of the monarchy. As the palace’s communications chief, what would you advise?

Dave Barton, Renegade Media

I’d go on record with an official statement from the palace:

“At this time, the palace can neither confirm nor deny allegations that the king is of sound mind. We can however state in good confidence that his wellbeing remains a key priority in what is proving to be a challenging time for the Royal Family. With this in mind, we urge local residents to begin searching for an elderly man in a white nightshirt answering to the name of ‘Georgie-Porgie’ in houses of ill-repute, cow sheds and any vaults likely to contain shiny objects of monetary value. If found, approach with caution from behind, placing a chloroform-soaked handkerchief over his nose and mouth. A cash reward will be offered upon his safe return.”

Nick Pickles, Erudine

Immediate photo opportunity with the said tree and the King of Prussia, explaining a previously unknown private joke between the pair and illustrating their close friendship.

To be accompanied with the following: “Clearly, the King is a man of passion and conviction. His energy and vigour were widely applauded by the audience, many of whom commented what a refreshing change it was to the bland sound bites of other European monarchs.

“The King of Prussia and George share a deep friendship and fondness for dendrology. The reference in his recent speech to a nearby tree was a humorous aside intended for his close ally and confidant, and was welcomed in Prussian circles as cementing our diplomatic bond.”

Sam Branton, EBU

How times change. When King George showed himself to be a little eccentric, he was put in a straitjacket and locked away. Today, when our Royal Family fall out of nightclubs, liken themselves to female sanitary products, dress up as Nazis, and take part in It’s A Knockout, we barely muster a shrug. The royals have always been a bit mental – perhaps their staff have just learnt to communicate more aggressively.

What could the comms team of 1788 learn from the one today? Today’s officials are adept at turning the tables. When asked to explain or comment on questionable behaviour, they moan about press intrusion, unkind editorial motives and media scuttlebutt.

Maybe that would have worked for King George. When asked why the monarch is talking to foliage, the palace should have rolled its eyes and asked if the media had nothing more important to report? It might just have worked.

Next month: Macbeth Having murdered King Duncan and snatched the throne from rightful heir Malcolm, Macbeth is mistrusted and disliked by his subjects. How would you suggest he reverse this negative perception or improve his public profile? Email your response to neil.gibbons@ communicatemagazine.co.uk