King Charles makes statement on 'Australia'

According to reports in the British press ahead of King Charles and Queen Camilla's visit to Australia next week, Charles said that it is for the people to decide whether they remain a constitutional monarchy or become a republic.

As reported by the BBC, there was an exchange of letters between the Australian Republic Movement and Buckingham Palace officials writing on behalf of the King prior to the visit. In a letter from the palace shared by the Daily Mail, it was stated that 'whether Australia becomes a republic is a matter for the Australian people to decide'.

'YOUR VIEWS HAVE BEEN NOTED WITH GREAT CARE'

The Commonwealth of Australia, by its official name, is a federal parliamentary democracy governed by a constitutional monarchy. In Australia, King Charles III of the United Kingdom is represented by Governor-General Sam Mostyn. The future of the monarchy in Australia is expected to be on the agenda during King Charles and Queen Camilla's visit to Australia next week, including stops in Sydney and Canberra.

As the BBC pointed out, the letter sent by palace officials on behalf of Charles reiterated an existing approach rather than signaling a change in policy. The letter from the palace addressed the sender as follows: "The King appreciates your taking the time to write, and has asked me to reply on his behalf... Please be assured that your views on this matter have been noted with great care. The King, as a constitutional monarch, acts on the advice of his ministers; therefore, whether Australia becomes a republic is a matter for the Australian public to decide."

The letter also stated that the King and Queen have a 'deep love and affection' for Australia and that the 'thoughtfulness in writing is sincerely appreciated'.

AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: REFERENDUM PLAN IS NOT A PRIORITY

Australia went to the polls for a referendum in 1999, and the majority voted to remain a constitutional monarchy. Earlier this year, the Australian government stated that plans for a new referendum were 'not a priority'.

Meanwhile, supporters of a republic in the country argue that Australia's head of state should not be a member of the royal family and that this person should be chosen by Australians. Following the announcement of King Charles III's visit, Isaac Jeffrey of the Australian Republic Movement stated that while they respect the role the monarchy has played to date, it is time for Australia to choose one of its own to serve as head of state. Jeffrey also pointed out that this person could work for Australia on a full-time basis.

News Source: 12punto