Is It Time for Canada to End Funding for the British Royal Family?

For decades, the British Royal Family has been a subject of debate, particularly regarding the ongoing expense of their maintenance. Canadians, along with others, have often questioned whether the heavy financial burden of supporting these royals is justified. Let's delve into the facts and consider the implications of ending this funding.

Myth vs. Reality: Who Funds the Royal Family?

The idea that Canada pays for the British royal family is a common misconception. In reality, the majority of the funding comes from British taxpayers, not through direct contributions to Canada. According to official figures, the British Royal Family is funded by a mere ￡1.50 per person each year, which is close to zero in Canadian dollars or other currencies. This cost is largely covered by the Duchy of Lancaster, the Duchy of Cornwall, and the Crown Estate, with a limited sum being returned to the monarch for official expenses.

Breaking Down the Sources of Their Funding

The financial support for the British Royal Family can be broken down into three main categories:

Duchy of Lancaster: This is a private estate that has been owned by the monarch since the 14th century. The revenues generated from this estate are not paid into the Treasury but remain with the monarch to cover various official duties and expenses. Duchy of Cornwall: This is the private estate of the Prince of Wales, who often assists in supporting the Prince of Wales Foundation with funds from this estate. Crown Estate: Since the 18th century, the monarch has been responsible for the Crown Estate, which generates substantial income. A small portion of this income, usually 15-25%, is returned to the monarch to cover her official expenses. The rest goes to the government.

The Burden in Perspective

Given that the British Royal Family manages on such a modest sum, it is reasonable to ask if the current level of funding is sustainable or necessary. Some argue that a President or leader in a republic would be just as expensive and could add personal biases to their roles. However, the underlying issue is more about the cost-benefit analysis of continuing to fund a symbolic institution rather than practical efficiency.

Land Ownership and Economic Impact

The Royal Family also holds significant land assets, particularly in Canada. It is estimated that more than 90% of the land across Canada is owned by the Crown. This raises questions about the true nature of land ownership and whether the current system of land tenure is appropriate in a modern democracy. The idea that these lands belong to the Crown rather than direct owners is a complex issue with historical roots in colonization, which has significant implications for both economic and social policies.

Towards a More Democratic Future

As we move towards a future that embraces greater simplicity and transparency, it might be time to reconsider the funding of such a dominant and often controversial institution. The call for abolition of the monarchy in Canada is not just about reducing costs but also about aligning with broader democratic principles. A movement for change should be initiated from the grassroots, reflecting the true voice of the people.

Conclusion

The ongoing debate over funding the British Royal Family highlights the need for a thorough reassessment of these expenses. While the current funding model may be insufficiently transparent, the broader issue of land ownership and the role of the monarchy in a modern, democratic society is far-reaching. It is time for a bottom-up movement to drive real change, ensuring that public money is used more effectively and transparently. The people of Canada and the UK should have a say in how their resources are allocated, and it is their voices that should ultimately decide the future of these institutions.