A new investigation has revealed that King Charles’ private estate, the Duchy of Lancaster, is charging the NHS millions in rent. The estate, which funds the King’s personal income, is billing Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust £11.4 million over 15 years to park its ambulances. This amounts to an annual rent of £830,000 for a warehouse in London.
Public Services Paying Millions
The investigation by Channel 4 Dispatches and The Sunday Times found that both the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall, which benefits Prince William, have received at least £50 million from public bodies. This includes payments from schools, local councils, and the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
Charities Paying High Rents
Charities, some supported by the royal family, are also paying significant rents to the Duchy of Cornwall. Over 19 years, Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, and Comic Relief have collectively paid millions to rent office space in a building known as ‘Charity Towers’ in London.
Calls for Transparency
Dame Margaret Hodge, former chair of the Public Accounts Committee, has called for more transparency. “King Charles should open up the finances of these estates for public scrutiny, especially when so many are struggling,” she said.
Tax-Free Earnings Questioned
The Duchies operate as commercial entities but do not pay capital gains or corporation tax. Although Charles and William pay income tax, the specific amounts are not publicly known. Former minister Norman Baker criticised the estates as “royal slush funds,” suggesting their earnings should go to the public.
Impact on Schools and Defence
The Duchy of Cornwall has charged schools and the MoD for land use. For example, Devon County Council signed a £300,000 rental deal for a primary school on Dartmoor. A school in Cornwall is paying £189,000 over 30 years to lease a farmhouse. The MoD also uses the estate’s land for training but has not disclosed its payments.
Royal Estates’ Response
The Duchy of Cornwall stated it is a “private estate with a commercial purpose” and emphasised its commitment to “acting responsibly and sustainably.” The Duchy of Lancaster said it “operates as a commercial company” and complies with UK laws.
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