Britain has possessed a monarchy for a substantial amount of time, 1209 years to be exact. It is a traditional part of our culture with the nation being ruled by a staggering 63 monarchs. Although the family is loved and cherished by many, in recent years criticism has overshadowed some of its successes. No wonder young people, in particular students, are turning away from the institution in favour of an elected head of state.
In preparation for this article I undertook some interviews with students to seek their views. One group of students expressed their support for the monarchy due to the money it brings into the country. In 2017, the annual contribution to the UK economy was £1.76 billion through tours of royal residences and sales of merchandise for example. This is a huge amount which could however be eclipsed by the fact that the sovereign receives a grant, which in 2022 cost the taxpayer £102.4 million, amid the cost of living crisis. Without the monarchy, the economy would undoubtedly be affected if this source of money was lost due to the staggering income it brings in, but this could be seen to be counteracted by the outgoings related to the family members carrying out their royal duties. Their decisions (which may be justifiable due to their status) when carrying out royal duties quickly diminish the funds the taxpayers invest in, due to travelling in private jets and being flanked by masses of security.
A second camp of students discussed their disdain with the royals, resulting from their accentuation of the divide between the rich and poor. In 2022, there were around 11 million people in the UK living in relative poverty which is likely to have increased since. This statistic is likely to have enraged people on lower incomes with state events such as King Charles’ Coronation costing between £50-£100 million for the 3 day event. The size of this event was colossal in terms of its significance for the monarchy but I’m not sure if that justifies the similarly huge expenditure, hence my fellow students seeming to be in agreement with this view.
As a student, I enjoy seeing the charity work carried out by members of the family, especially the work of the younger royals such as Kate and William. It feels genuine, they approach difficult subjects helping to raise awareness of worthy causes, this undoubtedly benefits society as their actions are displayed on a global scale which reaches many people who could be struggling. The anchor they play in times of need also feels necessary and supportive when global and national catastrophes occur. However, I feel the money they are given for these incredible acts are perhaps inordinate and should be shared proportionately with others in society who also play such pivotal roles (key workers such as nurses and teachers who get paid inadequate salaries for such important jobs).
Although students, on average, feel that the family are superfluous and sense the royals highlight the inequalities of society, when I asked opinions on whether an abolishment was needed, people were adamant that that took it too far. This means that a healthy middle ground should be implemented with public opinions finally taken into account when royals are deciding things such as their finances and resources. Change is unlikely to happen soon but our future generations will thank us for sharing our views now.