Should the Royal Family be more outspoken about current affairs - have your say
Nigel Farage has hit out at Prince William after he confessed he is "deeply concerned" about the conflict in the Middle East - but do YOU think the Royal Family should be more outspoken about current affairs?
The Prince of Wales released a personal statement yesterday highlighting the "desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza" and for hostages to be released, as he arrived at the British Red Cross headquarters to learn more about the humanitarian efforts taking place.
Posting on X, the future king penned: "I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed. I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible.
"There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. It’s critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released. Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home."
He concluded: "Even in the darkest hour, we must not succumb to the counsel of despair. I continue to cling to the hope that a brighter future can be found and I refuse to give up on that."
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The statement received a positive response from followers, as one person shared: "This is the most relevant thing he has ever said. Our future king should be playing a larger role in politics, standing up for moral causes such as ending brutal conflicts and defending the native peoples of his kingdom."
No10 said the Prince's statement is "consistent with the government position" and said it welcomes the intervention. However, former UKIP leader Mr Farage hit back: "I'm not sure that our future King should be doing this. He should stick to the BAFTAs."
Meanwhile, royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams praised William for taking a "humanitarian stance" as opposed to a "political" one. His declaration comes after the Prince pledged to make peace in the Middle East his "lifelong project" following a trip to the region in 2018.
William’s statement came as a surprise to some, as the late Queen Elizabeth avoided making comments on political issues and international affairs during her 70-year reign. Under Britain's constitutional monarchy, King Charles is the Head of State and the government is labelled 'His Majesty’s Government'.
However, the monarch must remain politically neutral and leave policy-making to the elected Parliament. While he is in regular meetings with the Prime Minister, Charles is obliged to follow the government's advice and should not take measures based on his own opinions.
The royal website explains: "Although The Sovereign no longer has a political or executive role, he or she continues to play an important part in the life of the nation. The Sovereign acts as a focus for national identity, unity and pride; gives a sense of stability and continuity; officially recognises success and excellence; and supports the ideal of voluntary service."
Ingrid Seward, the editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine said that William will know he can't enter the political arena - but says he can "tiptoe around the outside enough to make an impact". As he prepares for his next visit to humanitarian aid workers, we want to know if YOU think the Royal Family should be more outspoken on news and international affairs. Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.
The Mirror will also be discussing the topic with you in the comments section below and you can join in! All you have to do is sign up, submit your comment, register your details and then you can take part.
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