Yesterday, October 14, it was reported that Queen Elizabeth has canceled her staff's Christmas party. The Queen, whose spending has fallen under significant scrutiny for spending and who helped deliver the news that Britain must tighten its belt, reportedly felt that it would be inappropriate to splash out on a celebration.
Queen Elizabeth's Christmas party for 600 guests is canceled
The annual party had been planned for some 600 guests, including staff from three royal residences and the Queen's private estates. A spokesman said that, "Given the economic climate, it was thought appropriate to show restraint."
Cutting the party will save around £50,000. While newspapers have called for the Queen to cut spending, now that she is, some are publishing articles that call the Queen a "scrooge." In 2008 the party was cut from annual to once every two years.
British government to announce further cuts, Queen's civil list payment won't increase
The British government will also announce a new spending review on October 20. The expectation is that it will announce further governmental department funding cuts as it tries to reduce a record deficit.
Earlier this year, the senior royals acquiesced to a freezing of the civil list, a stipend that is given to cover their official expenses in exchange for money from the Crown Estate, which goes to the government. The Queen's roles range from high-profile events, such as launching ships and receiving state visitors, to awarding honours and welcoming new ambassadors.
The £7.9 million stipend has not been raised since 1990 and is intended as a payback for the handing-over of funds from the royal estate.
Guests disappointed at cancelation of the Queen's Christmas party
Guests are disappointed. One source said that, during the party, it's the only time one might dance with the Queen or Prince Philip, and see the royals relax. Additionally, the "champagne flows like water."
While the party, formerly scheduled for December 13, would have been paid for out of the Queen's private moneys, this year it was deemed tactless to throw such a lavish celebration when so many other British people were tightening belts and struggling.
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