HM’s better value than a president

THERE have been a number of letters recently from those like Tony Bennett, who would like to see the end of the monarchy and, no doubt, have it replaced with an elected president.

As a self-confessed monarchist I happen to believe our current head of state is worth preserving. Granted, a hereditary system of primogeniture may appear somewhat outdated in the 21st century. However, I am of the belief that just because something is long-established or historic it shouldn’t necessarily be abolished, particularly if it is seen to be positive and offer value for money.

Yes, the monarchy costs us money to maintain. It works out at about 60p per person per year and when we consider how the royals bring in millions of pounds in tourism, and as ambassadors, that makes the Queen one of the few taxfunded institutions that actually deliver a healthy return on investment. I mean, I can’t see us ever getting value for money funding a president? I only have to imagine a President Blair to quickly dismiss any idea of a republic. Republicans tend to argue that in a modern democracy the head of state must be elected. That argument would have more clout if the Queen actually had any real executive powers or actually set policy. But she doesn’t, most of them are symbolic.

Personally, I don’t think any president would ever command the reverence and respect that the Queen has both at home and abroad and certainly no president could ever stir the nation like Her Majesty does. That is because, in my view, the Queen is more than just a head of state; she is a symbol of what this country stands for.

Not only is the monarchy good for instilling a national pride, it’s good for the economy too. When it comes to commerce the monarchy can have a profound impact upon a company, product or business venture. For example, any company fortunate enough to be granted a Royal Warrant often finds it a huge boost to trade and enhancing their brand. Companies such LandRover and Barbour all have Royal Warrants which have helped them achieve global appeal and an iconic status.

Royal occasions offer business in the country and around the Commonwealth a unique opportunity to use the events as a way to promote their business and create special commemorative products. discounts.

According to the tourist authority Visit Britain, Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton raised around £2bn for the UK economy alone. Somehow, don’t think we’ll see a similar level of interest, jubilation or wealth creation when Leo Blair gets married.