Prince Charles - Architect ?

Prince Charles recently used his influence to persuade developers to drop a plan to transform Chelsea Barracks in London, apparently because he thought it "unsympathetic". This is not the first time that this man has expressed his opinion on architecture, and unfortunately there are people who take notice of his opinions. Let's be clear - he is NOT an architect and as far as I'm aware has no qualifications in that field. Whilst everyone is entitled to an opinion, and is entitled to express that opinion, a person in his position must learn to keep his mouth shut, simply because of the influence he can wield. Some people are so sycophantic that a royal has only to mention that, for example, they like chocolate, and boxes of the stuff will appear. Charles is in his sixties and has enough experience as a royal to be aware of this - all the more reason to shut up. It may be tough to have to keep quiet, but he is after all living a life of luxury at our expense - unlike my partner and I he doesn't have to worry where his next meal is coming from.

This also sets a dangerous precedent. The British royals are only where they are because the people of Great Britain apparently want them to be there. One of the reasons they are tolerated is because, whilst at the "head" of the country, they have no influence on the government, and "rise above" political involvement, (although it is obvious to everyone that they prefer the conservatives). This detachment applies to all walks of life where there is potential disagreement, but this particular instance is disturbing simply because it demonstrates just how much influence they can have if they don't draw in their horns. Time to get rid of the lot of them and elect a president instead. Click here to read the Guardian on this matter.