Politician · organisation

Angela Rayner on Royal Family

Critical of Prince Andrew (strong)

TL;DR

Angela Rayner holds a generally respectful view of the monarchy but is strongly critical of certain members, notably Prince Andrew.

Key Points

  • Reportedly described Prince Andrew as “that n****” while attempting to prevent him from being eligible to deputise for the King.

  • Reportedly told staff she could not vote to keep Prince Andrew on a list of counsellors of state due to her constituency obligations.

  • Delivered an unapologetic eulogy for the Duke of Edinburgh, stating he embodied values of public service.

  • Her interactions with King Charles III have been described as a 'love-in' during an official engagement in Cornwall.

Summary

Angela Rayner's reported stance on the Royal Family is complex, demonstrating a degree of respect for the institution while taking a firm, critical line against specific members. Claims from a book suggest she vehemently opposed Prince Andrew's potential return to public duties, even using strong language to describe him and trying to block him from being eligible to deputise for the King. This position is framed as a matter of principle, consistent with her working-class background and her feeling that she could not support such an individual back in her constituency. Conversely, other reports indicate a warmer relationship with King Charles III, highlighting an unstated affection and mutual appreciation during official engagements, suggesting she is not anti-monarchist but rather selective in her support.

This perceived duality reflects a broader political dynamic, as the Labour Party navigates its relationship with the Crown, especially concerning issues that touch on class values, which are important to Labour's base in certain areas. Her reported admiration for the late Duke of Edinburgh, praising his public service values, further illustrates that her position is not a wholesale rejection of the institution. Her focus appears to be on the moral standing and public service credentials of individual royals, which dictates her level of support, rather than a fundamental opposition to the monarchy itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Angela Rayner appears to hold a nuanced position, showing respect for the monarchy as an institution while being highly critical of certain members. She has not been characterised as anti-monarchist, but rather as someone who judges royals based on their conduct and commitment to public service.

She has expressed strong disapproval of Prince Andrew, reportedly trying to block him from retaining a position that would allow him to deputise for the King. This criticism was reportedly linked to her working-class values and a feeling of not being able to support his public role.

Yes, she has shown support for King Charles III, with whom she has had visibly warm interactions during public duties. Furthermore, she delivered a positive statement following the death of the Duke of Edinburgh, praising his embodiment of public service values.