The Royal Family: Abolish, reform or carry on? - My Ways (feat. Lil Jokey) - Single Recap

Podcast: My Ways (feat. Lil Jokey) - Single

Published: 2026-02-26

Duration: 41 minutes

Guests: Chris Brandt

Summary

The British monarchy faces heightened scrutiny amidst Prince Andrew's scandals and financial opacity. The episode weighs the monarchy's future, debating whether it should be reformed or abolished.

What Happened

The episode opens with Chris Brandt, a Minister of the Crown, expressing criticism towards former Prince Andrew, describing him as rude and entitled. This criticism comes amid a police investigation into Prince Andrew's scandal, intensifying public scrutiny of the royal family. The monarchy's finances, which lack transparency, are a major area of concern, with the sovereign grant providing about 80 to 90 million a year, while private estates like the Duchy of Lancaster and Duchy of Cornwall contribute tens of millions more.

Tom Bonsudi O'Brien suggests a Scandinavian-style monarchy with a trimmed core and increased transparency, reflecting public sentiment for reform. Confusion and controversy surround a substantial payment made by the late Queen to Virginia Duffray in 2022, connected to a case involving Prince Andrew. The lack of public knowledge about the specifics of royal finances, including whether taxpayer money was involved, raises questions about accountability.

Polling data from Ipsos indicates a 10% decline in support for the monarchy since September, yet over half of the public still believes the monarchy will continue for the next 50 years. This reflects a divided public opinion on the monarchy's value and future. The podcast suggests that while the monarchy provides soft power and international recognition, its cost and opaque operations are contentious.

There is an ongoing debate about whether the monarchy is worth maintaining, with some arguing that the institution's inertia will ensure its survival. Despite calls for reform, skepticism remains about whether substantial changes will occur, though Prince William has indicated reform is on his agenda.

Charles has taken steps such as stripping Andrew of his titles, but the reasons behind these actions remain unclear, adding to the calls for transparency. The monarchy's history of adapting for survival is acknowledged, but there is increasing pressure for accountability and openness, particularly concerning internal inquiries about Prince Andrew.

The episode also touches on the global context, noting there are around 42 monarchies worldwide, each with unique systems. The idea of replacing the UK's national anthem with something more modern or lively, like Whitney Houston's 'Dance with Some Body,' is humorously suggested, indicating a desire for modernization in royal traditions.

Key Insights

• Prince Andrew's scandals have prompted scrutiny of the royal family's opaque finances, with the sovereign grant alone accounting for 80 to 90 million pounds annually, while private estates add tens of millions more. This lack of transparency fuels public demand for financial accountability.
• A Scandinavian-style monarchy with a streamlined core and increased transparency, as suggested by Tom Bonsudi O'Brien, could align with public sentiment for reform. The idea contrasts sharply with the current British monarchy's opaque operations, highlighting a push for modernization.
• Despite a 10% decline in support for the monarchy since September, over half of the public still believes it will last another 50 years. This statistic reveals a deep-seated division in public opinion on whether the monarchy's historical significance outweighs its modern-day costs.
• Calls for modernization in royal traditions are humorously underscored by the suggestion to replace the UK's national anthem with Whitney Houston's 'Dance with Some Body.' Such ideas reflect a broader desire for the monarchy to adapt to contemporary cultural norms.

Key Questions Answered

What is the sovereign grant for the British royal family?

The sovereign grant is a financial mechanism providing about 80 to 90 million a year to cover royal family expenses, and it is publicly audited.

How has public support for the British monarchy changed?

According to Ipsos polling, support for the monarchy has declined by 10% since September, though over half of the public believes it will continue to exist in 50 years.

What are the Duchy of Lancaster and Duchy of Cornwall?

The Duchy of Lancaster and Duchy of Cornwall are private estates that provide tens of millions in private income to the royal family, contributing to their financial resources.