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King Charles confronted by anti-monarchy protestor amid public outing
A republican protestor confronted King Charles during his public interaction at Newmarket
King Charles showed grace under pressure on Tuesday as he and Queen Camilla stepped out for a visit to Newmarket where they were met with both warm welcomes and unexpected criticism.
The royal couple, both keen supporters of equestrian sport, were in Suffolk to tour The National Stud and the prestigious Jockey Club Rooms.
At The National Stud, Charles and Camilla shared a sweet moment with retired champion racehorse Stradivarius, offering him Polo mints as a treat.
Their visit to the historic town drew a crowd along the High Street, where King Charles warmly greeted well-wishers with handshakes and smiles.
However, amid the friendly faces, a republican protestor challenged the monarch with pointed questions about royal spending.
"Why does your family cost us half a billion pounds a year, Charles?" the man called out.
To which King Charles calmly replied, “Ah, yes,” and continued meeting other members of the public.
The protestor followed up with a query about royal staff wages, but the King kept his cool and moved on without further response.
Supporters nearby quickly turned to support the monarch, offering cheers of “You are my king!” and “God bless Your Majesty!”
The royal family’s finances are often criticized by anti-monarchy groups.
The Duchy of Lancaster, which provides income to the King, holds assets worth around £680 million, delivering a tax-free income of approximately £24 million annually. Prince William, through the Duchy of Cornwall, receives about £21 million each year, also tax-free.
