August Annotations

The Prince’s Trust - Betrayed!

Prince Charles’ letters to government ministers were leaked to the press recently, revealing the future sovereign’s interest in taking a part in British life. People everywhere have joined in the debate over this; some are against his letter writing, but thankfully there are many in his defense.
St. James’ Palace said that unnamed Whitehall sources were leaking the Prince’s letters, and complained about the lack of ‘complete confidentiality’. St. James’, along with other royal aides, have defended Charles’ right to discuss issues with ministers and write them with concerns. These concerns have been labelled as ‘interfering’ in politics, however.

‘If he wants to be involved in politics, then he should consider standing for election,’ declared MP Ian Davidson. Otherwise, Charles, sit quietly and do nothing. Apparently that’s what’s being implied.

If the Prince did sit idly by, however, then he would be condemned as ‘good for nothing’. It’s the old double-standard rearing its ugly head once again. We witnessed this type of controversy during the Wessex work crisis. So what is HRH supposed to do? Stand back, or take an active role in helping his country? It seems that either way he will lose due to fussy, anti-monarchist sentiment.

The feeling here is that Charles is simply voicing opinions on things that certain people don’t want to hear. They complain, trying to make it seem as though he is ‘interfering’ in politics. If it is dubbed as a political thing, an area where royals must stay out of, then that means Charles may shy away from writing more.

Nice trick, but let’s look at the reality of the situation: the Queen, in her capacity as monarch, is sent official government documents in the famous red boxes every day. She also meets weekly with the Prime Minister to keep abreast of what is happening. Elizabeth does not interfere, she keeps things to herself and does not take sides publicly. The Queen is completely discreet, and advises or consults where needed. Isn’t Charles doing just that? Were it not for the leak, his letters would be private, consulting and advising ministers as his position requires. As he is the future king, what is wrong with his actions?

A spokeswoman for the Prince spoke up on the issue, saying ‘It’s part of the Royal Family’s role to highlight excellence…and draw attention to issues on behalf of us all. [Charles] takes an active interest in all aspects of British life and believes that…part of his role must be to highlight problems and represent views in danger of not being heard.’

Charles is trying to help Britain retain its greatness by trying to help make a better life for his future subjects and bringing light to issues that may otherwise go unnoticed. He has the Prince’s Trust, an organization that has helped many young people enhance their skills in order to obtain jobs. The Trust also funds young people who are trying to start their own business. The Prince of Wales is also famous for his support for and involvement in organic foods, the environment, and countless other causes that affect everyone.

It has been said that if Charles were truly a man of the people, he would toss aside all titles and trappings and work for the common good on his own. We have to look at this rationally though! Charles has been raised to respect the position he was born into, and he knows that kingship will one day be his destiny. As Prince of Wales or king, he will have much more influence for the good of the people. You can’t deny that.
So I say: Good show, Charles! Don’t let anyone push you around just because they don’t care for your opinion. Show them how it’s done!

©2002 Mandy’s British Royalty”