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Royal news – live: King Charles and Queen Camilla face surprising ‘snub’ by Australian leaders ahead of tour

Charles and Camilla to begin royal tour of Australia later this week

Athena Stavrou
Monday 14 October 2024 10:52
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Britain Royals
Britain Royals

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King Charles and Queen Camilla are facing an embarrassing snub by leading Australian politicians ahead of their tour of the country.

As the couple prepare to kick off their nine day visit Down Under on Friday, every single state premier has turned down invitations to attend their royal reception in Canberra on October 21, reports suggest.

The King is set to deliver a speech at the event to recognise Australians for their achievements in the arts, culture, sports and health.

Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan is the latest representative to snub the invitation, whilst other politicians have given excuses such as “schedule clashes” and “election campaign duties”.

The first royal visit to Australia in more than a decade has sparked debate about the role of the monarchy in the Commonwealth country, with some republicans selling ‘farewell tour’ merchandise ahead of their arrival.

Australian pro-royalists have called the backlash a “slap in the face” to the royal monarchy, with the Australian Monarchists League telling local media: “All premiers and ministers have sworn allegiance to our monarch, Charles III, and it is a monumental insult that they now spit in his hand extended in friendship.”

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Visitors can now dine in King Charles’s favourite room at Scottish mansion

Royal enthusiasts will now be able to enjoy a feast in King Charles’s favourite room at Dumfries House.

The King, 75, is said to have most of his meals in the Pink Dining Room when he stays at the Ayrshire mansion.

Visitors will sit at the very table the monarch uses, beneath a 35kg Murano glass floral chandelier, and enjoy an 18th-century feast.

Vistors can now literally dine like a king at Dumfries House.
Vistors can now literally dine like a king at Dumfries House. (Andrew Milligan/PA Wire)
Dumfries House in Cumnock, Ayrshire.
Dumfries House in Cumnock, Ayrshire. (Andrew Milligan/PA)
Emma Guinness11 October 2024 15:00
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Prince and Princess of Wales – Unity brings hope for the future

Prince William and Kate Middleton have spoken of the healing power of unity in the face of adversity.

Their comments come following the couple’s first joint engagement to meet those affected by the Southport attacks yesterday.

“A heartfelt thank you to the people of Southport for talking about your experiences and honouring the young lives lost,” the official Kensington Palace Twitter/X account said.

“In the face of tragedy, this community’s strength and resilience has been a powerful reminder of the bonds that unite us.

“As the healing continues, take comfort in the incredible support around you. Each shared memory, act of kindness, and moment of unity brings hope for the future and ensures that those lost are never forgotten.”

Emma Guinness11 October 2024 12:00

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