The Scottish Greens have launched a bold election pledge demanding the immediate termination of what they describe as "ridiculous" tax breaks for the monarchy. The party asserts it is fundamentally unjust that the "scandal-ridden" royal family continues to receive financial perks while ordinary citizens grapple with soaring living costs.
Call for Tax Fairness
Co-leader Ross Greer has vocally criticised the legal exemptions that permit the King to avoid paying various taxes, labelling the situation as absurd. He emphasised that with essential expenses rising dramatically, it is unacceptable for vast sums of public money to be directed towards one immensely wealthy family based solely on hereditary privilege.
Devolved Tax Powers
While many taxation matters remain reserved to the UK Government, the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) is fully devolved to the Scottish Parliament. Commonly known as stamp duty in England, this levy is typically paid by individuals purchasing property. However, transactions involving the Crown are exempt from LBTT, meaning the King does not contribute when acquiring real estate.
The Scottish Greens have committed to ending this specific exemption, insisting that one of the nation's largest landowners must pay his fair share. Mr Greer stated, "The King is among the wealthiest individuals globally and a major landowner in Scotland. He does not require additional advantages, nor should he receive a free pass on taxes simply due to his birthright."
Criticism of Monarchical Privilege
Greer further argued that Scotland should not perpetuate a system where the powerful and privileged are excused from equitable contributions. He noted, "Even supporters of an unelected head of state would likely agree the King can afford to support our public services financially."
The co-leader characterised the monarchy as an anti-democratic relic, affirming the Scottish Greens would abolish it without hesitation. He referenced recent scandals, particularly those involving Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as evidence of the institution's failings. "No family should be above the law, yet the Windsors often act as if they are. It is high time the King started paying his taxes," Greer added.
Political Backlash
Murdo Fraser, the Conservative candidate for Perthshire North, dismissed the proposals as a "student politics stunt." He remarked, "Ross Greer and his Republican allies should mature instead of promoting unserious policies merely to appeal to certain audiences."
Royal Financial Arrangements
In response, the royal communications office clarified the King's tax obligations. They advised that all income from the Duchy of Lancaster is declared in his annual tax return. Additionally, the sovereign voluntarily pays income tax at HMRC's additional rate, along with capital gains tax on private income. The King is also subject to VAT and pays local rates on a voluntary basis.
Despite these voluntary payments, the Scottish Greens maintain that legal exemptions for the monarchy are outdated and inequitable. They argue that in an era of economic strain, such privileges for the super-rich are indefensible and must be revoked to ensure a fairer society for all citizens.
