Republic CEO Graham Smith is advocating for a significant change in the monarchy, suggesting that both whales and the king should have their royal titles revoked.
In the latest installment of GB News Royal podcast, The Royal Record, the head of the anti-monarchy movement discussed the necessary measures to eliminate these titles if a head of state were to be elected.
Smith envisions a shift from a constitutional monarchy to a democratic and parliamentary system, where the president is chosen through elections.
“Republic is all about equality among citizens,” emphasized Smith during the podcast conversation with GB News Royal correspondent Cameron Walker and Varnanen Sinda, Royal Editor of GBNews.com.
He highlighted the historical struggle against the monarchy and the privileged classes, dating back to the 17th century, stressing that it’s time to move towards a republic to ensure full citizenship rather than subjecthood.
Smith firmly believes that in a republic, aristocratic and royal titles have no place.
When questioned about the fate of the royal family’s titles in case the UK transitions to an independent head of state, he asserted that even if the king were to be Charles Windsor, he would function as an ordinary citizen – paying taxes, enjoying equal rights, and having the freedom to engage in political activities or lead a luxurious life.
While acknowledging the continued wealth of the king, Smith emphasized that shedding royal duties, titles, and tax exemptions would be part of the transformation.
Should members of the royal family relinquish their titles, the traditional honorifics of His Royal Highness and Her Royal Highness would cease to be used, as stated on the royal family’s official website.
Despite not being legally required to do so, both the king and the Prince of Wales voluntarily pay taxes.
Queen Elizabeth II set the precedent by paying income and capital gains taxes in 1992, making her personal income taxable since 1993.
The Prince of Wales also pays income tax at the highest rate on his taxable earnings, though the exact amount remains undisclosed.
Notably, the king was exempt from inheritance tax on funds inherited from his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II.
The Republic Group has been vocal in expressing dissent at various royal events and engagements.
The upcoming Trooping the Colour ceremony, marking the king’s birthday parade on June 15 along The Mall in London, is expected to witness demonstrations by the organization.
Despite postponing certain events to avoid overshadowing the impending general election, the king’s birthday celebration remains on schedule.
The Republic Group’s presence at such gatherings underscores its commitment to advocating for a republic and challenging the existing monarchical system.
In conclusion, the call to strip royal titles and transition towards a more democratic structure signals a potential turning point in the UK’s governance.