In a shocking revelation, King Charles and Prince William are facing serious allegations of profiting from public funds, with some critics labeling their actions as corrupt.
A joint investigation by the Sunday Times and Channel 4’s Dispatches has brought to light the financial practices surrounding the royal estates, particularly the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall, which have reportedly generated millions at the expense of public services.
The figures are staggering.
According to the investigation, King Charles amassed around £27.4 million (approximately $35 million) from the Duchy of Lancaster last year.
Meanwhile, Prince William’s Duchy of Cornwall raked in about £23.6 million (around $30 million) during the same period.
These vast sums raise eyebrows, especially considering that both estates are exempt from corporation tax and have been charging rent to various public entities, including the NHS and armed forces.
One particularly eyebrow-raising example is the Duchy of Cornwall’s reported annual income of £1.5 million from renting Dartmoor Prison.
This profit comes despite the prison being deemed unusable due to safety issues.
Such practices have led many to question the ethical implications of the royals’ financial dealings, especially when they position themselves as advocates for charitable causes.
Critics, including prominent anti-monarchy campaigners, have not held back in their condemnation.
Graham Smith, the chief executive of the Republic Campaign Group, expressed his outrage, stating, “This is about basic standards, it’s about corruption, it’s about abuse of public money.” His words resonate with a growing sentiment among the public who feel that the monarchy’s financial practices are at odds with their proclaimed values.
The investigation has also shed light on the stark contrast between the royal family’s financial benefits and their public commitments to pressing social issues, such as homelessness and environmental sustainability.
How can they justify these substantial incomes derived from public resources while maintaining a façade of service to the people?
This scrutiny has ignited a renewed demand for transparency regarding royal finances.