Cost of Coronation Raises Debate #

The coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, held in May last year, cost British taxpayers £72 million ($91 million), sparking discussions about the expenditure’s justification. The event was the first coronation in the UK since Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. It served as an opportunity for the entire nation to celebrate and attracted an estimated global audience of 2 billion across 125 countries.

However, the lavish event, which included a gold carriage procession and a display of the monarchy’s jewels, faced criticism for its extravagance amid a cost-of-living crisis that had gripped the country since late 2021. One criticism highlighted that the coronation budget could have funded 24 million free meals for schoolchildren in London, based on a cost of £3.00 ($3.75) per meal, a vital program intended to help families struggling financially.

The Royal Family contributed financially, with £800,000 ($1 million) from the Sovereign Grant and additional funds from the Privy Purse, underscoring their effort to balance the historic occasion’s significance with economic concerns. The event was scaled back compared to previous coronations, featuring a shorter carriage procession and a reduced guest list at the main ceremony in Westminster Abbey. Despite challenges, the celebration was noted for bringing the country together.