Is the Monarchy becoming too political?

PiPs Newcastle held their second meeting on the 9th May 2023, the day after the coronation weekend to discuss – what else! – the topic of the UK’s constitutional monarchy, with a particular focus on whether it is becoming too political.

Interviewed on his 70th birthday in 2018, Prince Charles emphatically rejected the suggestion that he would continue to ‘meddle’ in politics if he succeeded to the throne.  He said “I’m not that stupid. I do realise that it is a separate exercise being sovereign. The idea somehow that I’m going to go on in exactly the same way, is complete nonsense.”

Now crowned King of the United Kingdom and head of the Commonwealth, is Charles III keeping that promise?

And if not, does it matter? If we care about free speech, shouldn’t everyone have the right to air their opinion?  Or does a monarch who is not politically neutral pose a threat to democracy?

Will speaking out on social and cultural issues help the Royal Family to remain relevant to a new generation?  Or, given the increasingly polarised nature of society, could this undermine their stated goal of acting as a focus for national identity, unity and pride?

Those attending the meeting held widely different views on the monarchy, with some seeing it as a source of pride and part of our cultural heritage, while others would like to have it abolished as anachronistic and undemocratic.  Despite these different opinions, members largely agreed that the monarchy was becoming too political, with particular concerns about the King’s involvement with supranational organisations such as the World Economic Forum.

The consensus was that becoming overly political was socially divisive and could undermine the Monarchy’s chances of survival, although whether this was a good or bad thing was a matter for lively – but always respectful – debate!

We are growing!

In 2023 we are expanding our activities via regional Politics in Pubs groups and have created a map where you can search for a group near you.

Don’t worry if you can’t find anything nearby as you can start your own group. If you would like to be put in touch with other people interested in talking about politics, please reply to this email letting us know your location and we’ll help to get the conversation started.

We are also planning to network with other free speech groups who have a similar interest in open discussion and debate. If you have such a group and want to appear on our map please get in touch.