On Pegging The Head Of State's Salary To That Of The Prime Minister
William and Charles' income is out of control. We need a sensible system as modelled by other European countries.
9/20/20251 min read
Pegging Britain’s head of state’s salary to that of the prime minister, as is done in Ireland, would offer several key advantages—especially from a democratic, fiscal, and ethical standpoint:
1. Ensures Fairness and Proportionality
The prime minister’s salary (£172,150 in 2025) reflects the responsibilities of an elected leader accountable to the public.
Linking the head of state’s pay to that benchmark would make sure the role is appropriately compensated—not excessively rewarded compared to others in public service.
2. Ends Excessive Royal Spending
The British monarchy receives hundreds of millions annually through the Sovereign Grant, alongside private wealth and state perks.
Pegging the salary would curb the unchecked public funding of royal expenses and align with public expectations of value for money.
3. Improves Transparency and Accountability
The PM’s salary is public, regulated, and subject to scrutiny.
By tying the head of state’s earnings to it, you'd remove the opacity and privilege surrounding royal finances.
4. Symbolic Equality
It reinforces the idea that no one is above public service, not even the head of state.
This would reflect modern democratic values, contrasting sharply with the hereditary privilege and symbolic extravagance of monarchy.
5. Reduces the Burden on Taxpayers
A salary model would significantly cut public costs—no more funding lavish estates, international tours, or extensive security for extended royal relatives.
Instead, the head of state would be a civil servant, not a dynastic figurehead.
6. Promotes Meritocracy
In Ireland, the president is elected and serves a largely ceremonial role, just like the British monarch—but is paid as a public servant, not as a royal.
This reinforces the principle that service, not birthright, earns public support and resources.
Pegging Britain’s head of state’s salary to that of the prime minister would bring financial restraint, democratic accountability, and symbolic fairness—a strong alternative to the current system of unlimited royal privilege funded by the public.