In today's world, where every penny counts and the cost of living seems to be on an eternal upward trajectory, an interesting question pops up: If Prince Harry and Meghan Markle can make waves of positive change through their charitable efforts without dipping into taxpayer's funds, why are we still funding the rest of the royal family?
Let's break it down. Harry and Meghan, once senior members of the British Royal Family, decided to step back from royal duties and carve out a new path. A path that led them overseas, away from the financial safety net provided by UK taxpayers. Yet, despite the lack of public funding, they've continued to make headlines for their philanthropic endeavours. From mental health initiatives to advocating for racial equality and uplifting communities, their work hasn't slowed down. It is thriving on independence.
Harry and Meghan Challenge the Need for Royal Funding Amid Cost of Living Crisis.
Now, let's pivot back to the rest of the royal family, who, unlike Harry and Meghan, continue to receive public funding. The taxpayer's funding isn't pocket change. It's millions of pounds annually, a substantial chunk of which is spent on official travel, property maintenance, and even staff salaries. According to accounts for the Sovereign Grant of June 2023, the Royal Household's net expenditure was £107.5 million(136 million dollars). For those who don't know, the Sovereign Grant of £86.3 million(109.1 million). The Sovereign Grant is an annual sum from the British Government. It's the British taxpayer who foots the bill, and in an era when many are struggling to make ends meet, the justification for this spending becomes increasingly thin.
In fairness, the Royal Family does bring in revenue through tourism and the Crown Estate. However, the question isn't about whether the monarchy can be profitable or if it serves as a cultural and historical icon. The real question is about necessity and priority. When families decide between heating and eating when public services are under strain, can we justify spending public funds on a lifestyle that seems worlds away from the average citizen?
Harry and Meghan's journey serves as a compelling case study. They've demonstrated that it's possible to be influential, to support worthwhile causes, and to make a genuine impact without relying on taxpayer money. Their example raises a broader question about the royal family's role in modern society and how it's funded.
In a time of economic hardship, the way we view public spending is becoming more crucial. Perhaps Harry and Meghan's charitable success, achieved independently of public funds, offers a moment for contemplation. Could these funds be better used to address more immediate public concerns? Is it time to reassess the financial structure that supports the royal lifestyle?
While the monarchy's historical and cultural value must be recognized, discussing its public funding is timely and necessary. Harry and Meghan have inadvertently sparked a debate, demonstrating that making a difference doesn't have to come at the taxpayer's expense. In a time of significant cost of living crisis, it's a conversation to be had.
Doing Good Without Taxpayer Money: Harry and Meghan Challenge the Need for Royal Funding Amid Cost of Living Crisis.
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L J Louis is an aspiring international trade lawyer, writer, foodie, and women's advocate with a double major degree in psychology and criminology and a Bachelor of Law(Hons LLB) degree. She writes about human sexuality, psychology, and Meghan Markle.