King Charles Faces Backlash Over Profiting from NHS Deals
- King Charles and Prince William are facing criticism for profits made from public service deals.
- Both Duchies are exempt from paying corporation and capital gains taxes and had significant income last year.
- Campaigners are calling for the abolition of the Duchies to improve transparency and redirect funds to the NHS.
King Charles is under pressure to dissolve his private estates that are reportedly earning millions from public services, including the NHS. A recent investigation highlighted that both the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall generated over £50 million last year, with revenue streams from renting out properties and spaces to organizations like the NHS. Campaigners have criticized these arrangements, particularly a deal involving electric ambulance storage, calling it 'disgraceful' and exploitative. Investigations also revealed that many residential properties managed by the Duchies do not meet the minimum energy efficiency standards, with both estates having a significant percentage of rentals rated below legal requirements. This situation raises significant ethical questions, especially regarding Prince William's management of the Duchy of Cornwall and his commitments to social issues like homelessness. The controversy around the Duchies stems from their historical context. These estates are not private properties but state assets that the royals administer as part of a long-standing tradition. Calls for abolition come from concerns that the royals profit while avoiding taxes and neglecting tenant welfare. The spokesperson for the Duchy of Cornwall claimed that ongoing improvements are aimed at addressing these issues. Ultimately, campaigners are demanding that the profits from these estates be redirected to serve local communities and support public services like the NHS, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability from the royal households.