British MPs are to hold an inquiry into the heir to the British throneâ„¢s controversial veto power in government legislations that affect his interests.
The investigations follow revelations in 2011 that Prince Charles had overridden part of government bills thanks to a veto power that forces ministers to seek his permission where his interest is concerned.
The House of Commons political and constitutional reform committee will examine the possibility of the royal consent requirement, which is some cases also brings the Queen into play, Å“could be seen as politicizing the monarchy”.
“Is there a continuing justification for the Queen’s or prince’s consent to be part of the legislative process?” the committee will be asking.
The 2011 revelations showed that ministers from six government departments had been forced to seek Charlesâ„¢s approval to their bills for at least a dozen times since 2005.
The areas where he had intervened included economic development and construction, housing and regeneration, energy, gambling and even the London 2012 Olympics.
At the time, there were criticism that the prince’s ability to veto government bills effectively gave him a royal Å“nuclear deterrent” over public policy, forcing ministers into a defensive position even if Charles did not use his veto.
the announcement of a parliamentary inquiry has been welcomed by the anti-monarchy group the Republic.
“If Charles believes he has a right to secretly lobby ministers and exercise a veto over new laws then he should be called to the Commons to give evidence himself,” said Republic director Graham Smith.
The parliamentary inquiry will be held in the form of three hearings in September where no member of the royal family or their staff will be present.
AMR/HE
Republished from: Press TV