SLIMMED DOWN ROYALS? ANNE'S NOT A FAN

Princess speaks out over King's plans

- RUSSELL MYERS

PRINCESS Anne is a staunch ally of the King but it seems they may not see eye to eye on plans to modernise the Royal Family.

Charles, 74, has long been in favour of updating the institution by trimming it, and he has already laid the groundwork for the task.

But in her most candid interview ever, Anne has said a slimmed-down monarchy "is not a good idea".

A royal insider said: "While her overall tone was incredibly positive and honest, there are some raised eyebrows over the logic of entering the 'slimmed-down' argument.

"It certainly goes against the message from the top.

"The King and Prince of Wales are aligned that the institution needs to be more self-aware now than ever in its history, and such comments could be considered as an act of self-harm.

Anne also talked about her brother's suitability for the role of King and her sadness at losing their mother, while also mounting a passionate defence of the Royal Family.

The late Queen's only daughter, often labelled the "hardest-working member of The Firm", insisted the institution brings “long-term stability", "continuity" and "goodness" to the UK and Commonwealth.

Anne also revealed moving details of how Covid "robbed" the late Queen and Prince Philip of vital interaction and stimulation in their final years.

As calls grow for modernising the Royal Family and ensuring it gives value for money, Palace sources say the King is "acutely aware" of the financial pressures on people during the cost of living crisis.

A poll last week revealed 80 per cent of Brits agree with him about a slimmed-down monarchy.

But speaking to Canadian public broadcaster CBC, Anne made her objections clear.