I asked Cardiff University students what their opinions are on the relevance of the royal family. The response was predominantly negative, with the majority taking the stand that the Monarchy is an outdated system, unrepresentative of British people, and a drain on national resources and taxpayer money. A small minority argued that they are a pillar of our history and a positive representation of patriotic values and tradition; however, even fans and supporters acknowledged it functions more as cultural entertainment than serious institution.
Those fans seem to turn a blind eye to Britain’s history of imperialism and colonialism, as well as all the racism and violence that comes with it. The Royal family is a symbol of white nationalism, and that is not something that should be glorified.
Tourism is the royalist’s main argument, claiming “they’re a marketing tool, bringing revenue into the country through tourists wanting to see British history and culture”.
However, a student counteracted the solidity of this reason, suggesting “France makes more in tourism from their dead royal family and their palaces, estates and titles than we do with a living one”.
Allegedly they bring in money from tourism, but students question if this is truly more than they spend?
The royals are known for their secrecy and are no stranger to lies and deceit.
The shame of Andrew’s unsettling friendship with Jeffrey Epstein leaves a bitter taste, and doesn’t shape the family as “great role models”.
Another student student highlights that “Tony Blair’s use of the royal prerogative to push for the Iraq war, proves how they’re out of touch of reality, and are not fit to make political decisions which bypass both the House of Commons and the House of Lords”.
A royal family “void of the working class” is inherently elitist and exploitative; and perpetuates classism.
It feels out of place and outdated in today’s society
One student noted it’s purely by chance they are “born into ridiculous wealth, fame and power”, and “inheritance is responsible for enough inequality as is”.
A lot of students found it ironic how this money could be better spent on providing help for those in poverty or seeking refuge, healthcare, education, social work, etc., rather than funding the lavish lifestyle of one singular family.
“It feels out of place and outdated in today’s society... as a country we are more diverse, atheist, multi-cultural, and no longer following one demographic of the Christian white person.” The family’s extortionate wealth does not provide good reason in today’s society to justify the argument that they help the people.