Would a Return to a Monarchy Benefit the UK?

Is the concept of democratic public governance flawed?

A monarchy would eliminate the need for a Loony Party and that is simply insane, so all good there! The UK has a long and proud history as a monarchy, dating back over 1,000 years. Before the inception of parliament during the 18th Century, the UK was significantly more accomplished globally than it currently is under contemporary public governance. Times change but the monarchy has played an important role in the UK's political, economic, and cultural development since the death of Edward the confessor in 1066.  In recent years there has been growing support for a return to a monarchy,  a number of polls have shown that a majority of Britons would want it such, given the opportunity. We, as a nation, should demand this be added to the next election ballot paper and kept there: Bring back the Monarchy! 

There seems no question that the UK is in serious decline, our governmental system is in tatters and the country badly needs solid, sustainable leadership. After years of training and experience as the Prince of Wales, Charles became one of the countries most esteemed and eloquent foreign diplomats. A Gordonstoun graduate raised by a mother whom most people admired, (globally) he is a very adept advocate. Take time to look into what Prince Charles accomplished on the global stage before he became king. He has been trained by the countries finest and is undoubtedly the most experienced leader we have...trained or natural. Britain is keeping our best player on the bench when we're 2-0 down. 

Post Brexit, the nation has become polarised and is desperatly in need of guidance, direction and a unified polarity... not tomorrow, today! Nobody appears to have this ability in government, despite there being plenty of talent, it remains totally dysfunctional as a systemic process. A monarchy could bring this into focus given the opportunity.  It's the Alex Ferguson Phenomenon; Given time and the continuity required, a monarch armed with accurate data and a hand selected competent team, purposely constructed for the job then refined where it falls short... makes for success. 

For public opinion, all that is needed for clarity on any topic is a real time online poll, similar to FANTASY POLITICS.  King Charles has PROVEN he has the skillset to accomplish this and 'we, the people' should be offered the opportunity to decide for ourselves; so let us vote on it. There is a genuine reason Russia and China are doing well... continuity. A monarchy would give us this strength. All monarchs die on their legacy and King Charles is the most equipped and trained leader we currently have... arguably, ever! 

Reasons why...

1. A monarchy would provide stability and continuity. The UK has a long and stable history as a monarchy. The monarchy has been a unifying force in the UK for centuries.
2. A monarchy would promote British values and culture.The monarchy plays an important and successful role in promoting British values and culture around the world.
3. A monarchy attracts tourism and brings investment. The monarchy and their estate(s) across the UK are major tourist attractions. The monarchy also helps to attract foreign investment capital to the UK.
4. A monarchy would provide a sense of long lost, national pride. The monarchy is a symbol of national pride for many Britons. The monarchy helps to unite the country and give Britons a sense of belonging.
5. A monarchy would be a check on the power of their assigned government. The monarch has the power to veto legislation and dissolve Parliament. This power acts as a check on the power of the government.
6. A monarchy would be a symbol of unity for the United Kingdom. The monarch is the head of state for all the countries in the United Kingdom. The monarchy helps to unite the different countries of the UK.
7. A monarchy does not need money; consequently, the ability to make moral decisions based on actual morality and not based in finance offers an honest perspective on policy and is essential for making the correct moral decision. … a Monarch dies with their reputation: Forever!

The Case Against Government

Critics argue that the current government has repeatedly demonstrated a lack of transparency and accountability. We can point to numerous instances of misinformation and broken promises as evidence of this, some of which is detailed below. The strain on the UK constitution and system of governance due to unprecedented events like Brexit and Covid-19 has further exacerbated these issues.

These critics argue that the government's handling of these crises has been marked by indecision, inconsistency, and a lack of clear leadership. They contend that this has resulted in confusion, frustration, and a loss of public trust.

One of the most egregious examples of this is the MPs' expenses scandal, leading to public outrage and several resignations. Critics argue that this scandal is indicative of a systemic problem within the government.

Moreover, there have been numerous proven lies by the government. For instance, one of the most enduring lies was the claim on the side of the Vote Leave campaign bus that “we send the European Union £350m a week” — a claim that has now been widely debunked. Politicians come and go, they are voted out, there is no responsibility for the good, bad or chaos they caused whilst in office, total immunity to the consequences they cause. Case in point; Bumbling Boris, Cameron the Clown and Trussed up like a kipper.

The case in evidence: A list of recent affairs and scandals.

1. The Lobbying Scandal - Greensill Saga: This scandal involved the collapse of finance firm Greensill Capital, which had ties to several high-profile figures, including former Prime Minister David Cameron. The firm was given access to a government-backed loan scheme without detailed checks, leaving UK taxpayers facing a £335m loss. The saga raised questions about lobbying activities and the relationship between politicians and private businesses.
2. MPs' expenses scandal: was a major political scandal that emerged in 2009. It surrounded expenses claims made by members of the British Parliament in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords over the previous years. The disclosure of widespread misuse of allowances and expenses permitted to members of Parliament (MPs) aroused widespread anger among the UK public and resulted in a large number of resignations, sackings, de-selections and retirement announcements together with public apologies and the repayment of expenses.
   Several members or former members of both the House of Commons, and members of the House of Lords, were prosecuted and sentenced to terms of imprisonment. A February 2008 Freedom of Information Act request for the release of details of MPs' expenses claims was allowed by an Information Tribunal but challenged by the House of Commons Authorities on the grounds that it was "unlawfully intrusive".
   In May 2008 the High Court (England and Wales) ruled in favour of releasing the information. In April 2009 the House of Commons authorities announced that publication of expenses, with certain information deemed "sensitive" removed, would be made in July 2009. But before this could take place the expenses records and documentation were leaked to The Daily Telegraph newspaper, which began publishing details in daily instalments from 8 May 2009.
   These disclosures dominated the British media for weeks. On 18 June 2009 the details of all MPs' expenses and allowance claims approved from 2004 to 2008 were published on the official Parliament website with detail such as addresses, claims that were not approved for payment and correspondence between MPs and the parliamentary fees office removed.
3. New Expenses Scandal: A recent investigation uncovered a significant increase in expenses claimed by MPs and members of the House of Lords between August 2019 and July 2022. This spending occurred during a period of economic hardship for many UK citizens due to Covid-19 and other factors.
4. Cash for Honours (2006-2007): This scandal involved allegations that the Labour Party had violated laws against political corruption by offering life peerages in return for loans.
5. The Paradise Papers: The Paradise Papers is a set of 13.4 million confidential electronic documents relating to offshore investments that were leaked to a German newspaper and then shared with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. The documents originate from the offshore law firm Appleby, the corporate services providers Estera and Asiaciti Trust, and business registries in 19 tax jurisdictions. They contain the names of more than 120,000 people and companies. Among those whose financial affairs are mentioned were:
   • Michael Ashcroft, former member of the House of Lords¹
   • George Magan, member of the House of Lords¹
   • Jacob Rees-Mogg, member of the House of Commons¹
   • James Sassoon, member of the House of Lords and former Commercial Secretary to the Treasury
   and the President of Colombia, Juan Manuel Santos.
   The UK government responded to the leak by launching a cross-government taskforce called the Panama Papers Taskforce, which included experts from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and the National Crime Agency. The taskforce investigated individuals and companies for potential tax evasion and avoidance.
6. The Panama Papers: The Panama Papers are an unprecedented leak of 11.5m files from the database of the world’s fourth biggest offshore law firm, Mossack Fonseca. The records were obtained from an anonymous source by a German newspaper and shared with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ). The documents show how wealthy individuals, including public officials, hide their money from public scrutiny.
   In response to the Panama Papers leak, then UK Prime Minister David Cameron announced a new taskforce to deal with tax evasion issues raised by the Panama Papers leak. The taskforce was jointly led by HMRC and the National Crime Agency, and included experts from HMRC, the National Crime Agency, the Serious Fraud Office and the Financial Conduct Authority.
   Both leaks have led to numerous investigations worldwide into possible tax evasion by wealthy individuals and public officials. They have also sparked a global conversation about wealth inequality and tax avoidance.
7. The Pandora Papers: The Pandora Papers are a leaked cache of 11.9 million files from companies that specialize in creating offshore companies and trusts. They exposed an alternative financial world where the super-rich can hide their assets and pay little or no tax. This follows on from the Panama Papers in 2016 and the Paradise Papers in 2017.
   The Pandora Papers shed light on a hidden world and the secret buying of UK property by foreign leaders. They show that a businessman whose companies have backed 34 Tory MPs made millions from an allegedly corrupt Russian pipeline deal.
   The Pandora Papers also revealed the secret owners of more than 1,500 UK properties bought using offshore firms. The owners include high-profile foreign politicians, individuals accused of corruption, and UK political donors. The properties have an estimated value in excess of £4 billion.
   In response to the Pandora Papers, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is writing to UK residents named in the files of 14 offshore financial service providers. These providers specialize in companies, trusts, and foundations in low, or no tax, jurisdictions. The letters warn recipients to report all their overseas income or gains that they owe UK tax on, or face penalties of up to 200% of any tax due or prosecution.
8. Boris Johnson's House of Lords Honour Selections: Seven new life peerages were announced on 9 June 2023 as part of Boris Johnson’s resignation honours. It was reported that Mr Johnson’s original list had included a further eight names, but concerns were raised about these by the House of Lords Appointments Commission (HOLAC).

These scandals have contributed to public disillusionment with the UK government and have fueled debates about transparency, accountability, and the influence of private interests in politics. Now take this a step further into the mentality of 'The Politician'... paid to make life and death decisions or risk losing their career. 'Kill, or be killed' is an easy stereotype to adopt but certainly not the mindset you would want 'those in charge' to  possess. 

The Case for the Monarchy

In contrast to the perceived instability and dishonesty of the current government, proponents of monarchy argue that it offers a sense of decency, stability and continuity. I will also add that I think Prince Charles is more honest than he is not, to say the very least, simply because he has very little reason, if any at all, for creating lies and falsehood. The monarchy is an institution that has existed for centuries, representing a link to the past and a symbol of national identity. They are Britains first family and there's no comparison to the Kardashians in sight at all... World's apart. Royalty just is.

A monarch's power, influence, legacy, and legend can provide a unifying force for the nation and serves as a non-partisan figurehead who is above the day-to-day politics that often divide society. This can foster a sense of unity and shared identity among citizens because monarchs literally 'die on thier reputation'. ... and a good Monarch know's so. 

Moreover, proponents argue that having a clear line of succession can prevent power struggles and political instability. In times of crisis or uncertainty, having a monarch can provide reassurance and continuity.

They also point out that the monarchy can serve as a check on government power. While the monarch does not typically interfere in political matters, they retain the right to do so in certain circumstances. This can serve as a safeguard against potential abuses of power by the government.

A Systemically Democratic Monarchy? 

As previously mentioned; Here is exactly how the Monarchy could improve the country and maintain demonstrable democracy for all subjects. If you are familiar with our version of FANTASY POLITICS  ...

If a similar scenario were put online by the monarchy, (Royal.uk) for every single policy decision being made by government an online public poll would be initiated (easy to do)... the people could have a fair say in every single policy the Kings government are considering. The King, and his hand picked government, selected for their skillset, reinforced by online public consensus, would be furnished with this democratically volunteered data from activists and subjects. Armed with this, government could then analyse and adapt policy to make the best decisions for the people. If a contrary decision is made, the Kings government should be given the opportunity explain why they decided to neglect the decision of the people and opt for an alternative... and the King would have the right to veto... total accountability. Brexit being a prime example in point.

I could argue that this is the best form of democracy there is possible but (of course) that is dependent upon the quality of the Monarch... admittedly, I do have a little more faith in ours than some others do. This being said, like or loath royalty, you must be able to relate to the Alex Ferguson phenomenon... continuity is definitely KEY to success. Give Charles the chance and I think Britain could be Great again... because we're not anymore, thanks solely, not in part, to Eton... Prince William's school. Maybe he will be the one student that finally gets it right?  

To Conclude:

A return to a monarchy would benefit the UK in numerous ways but of course, there are always potential drawbacks to a monarchy. For example, some people argue that a monarchy is undemocratic, and that the monarch has too much power. However, currently the monarch's power is limited by the constitution and by Parliament… and where is that getting us?

In addition, love or hate China and Russia there is no question that the continuity of their autocracies has lead to better lifestyles of their citizens, in a relatively short period of time … or put another way, it seems to be working. I label it the Alex Ferguson Phenomenon because in politics, continuity matters, just like in Football.

The UK is lacking credible leadership and has done so for a while… it’s that simple. The Royals have been trained to lead their whole lives, and some of it must have rubbed off. Hand in paint being the metaphor… some has to stick. Maybe it’s time for the King to step up to the plate and take the helm?  Keir Starmer really isn’t it, (even though he is getting better). There is no question that he is going to be the next Prime Minister; unless war is declared of course? 

While critics argue that monarchy is outdated and undemocratic, proponents contend that it offers stability, continuity, and a unifying national identity. Given the recent criticisms of the UK government, some believe that it may be time for a return to those traditional values. I appreciate this sounds like an old conservative value… but I reckon ‘Will, is with it’ and todays MP’s are not.

It is important to note that this is not a simple issue with clear-cut answers and it is said that opinions are like *ssholes… everybody has one. However, being self confessed... I will add my own:
"You cannot blame a king for being born a king, no more than you can blame anyone but yourself for your own current position in life. To hold anything against anyone for simply being born demonstrates nothing but ignorance and we all need to rise above this... be that in religion or in life."

A return to a monarchy would involve some complex questions about governance, democracy, tradition, and national identity. As such, it warrants thoughtful consideration and open dialogue…  but I’m Charles over Keir any day. As a Leeds fan, Alex Ferguson still remains one of the best managers in history; after Don Revie, Bielsa ... and possibly Jack Charlton. As I said, all *ssholes have an opinion.