5 Inspirational British Republicans

1. Tony Benn (1925–2014)

A legendary Labour politician and orator, Benn was a passionate advocate for democracy and constitutional reform. He consistently argued against hereditary privilege and was a staunch republican, believing that sovereignty should rest with the people, not the Crown.

"If one meets a powerful person — Rupert Murdoch, perhaps, or the Queen — ask them five questions: What power have you got? Where did you get it from? In whose interests do you exercise it? To whom are you accountable? And how can we get rid of you?"

— This quote underlines Benn's belief in democratic accountability, something he felt the monarchy lacked

2. Caroline Lucas

The former leader and MP of the Green Party of England and Wales, Lucas has spoken in favour of replacing the monarchy with an elected head of state. Her broader politics are rooted in environmental justice and democratic accountability.

"I think it's absolutely legitimate to question whether a hereditary head of state is compatible with a 21st-century democracy. I think it's time to have that debate."

— Lucas advocates for open discussion on the monarchy’s place in modern Britain

3. Jeremy Corbyn

The former Labour Party leader is a long-time republican, although he largely avoided the issue during his leadership. Corbyn has criticised the monarchy for being undemocratic and supports the idea of a British republic based on popular sovereignty.

"I am a republican in the sense that I want us to live in a society where we don’t have people born to rule."

— Corbyn’s republicanism is rooted in his broader vision of equality and democratic governance

4. Clive Lewis

A sitting Labour MP and outspoken republican, Lewis has called for a new constitutional settlement in the UK. He’s been vocal about the need for systemic change and the importance of moving away from hereditary institutions.

"Let’s not shy away from the big questions. Do we really want to be subjects of a monarchy in the 21st century, or citizens of a republic?"

— Lewis frequently challenges the status quo and calls for a democratic rethink of the UK's institutions

5. Peter Tatchell

A human rights campaigner and activist, Tatchell has long been a critic of the monarchy. He argues that it is undemocratic and incompatible with the principles of equal citizenship. His republicanism is part of his broader commitment to civil liberties and social justice.

"The monarchy is an affront to democratic values. It is based on inherited privilege, not merit or election. We, the people, should choose our head of state."

— Tatchell’s activism extends to his belief that true democracy requires an elected, accountable head of state.