Role of the Duchy of Cornwall

Commenting on reports in the media about the role of the Duchy of Cornwall, local MP, Andrew George, said:

“A number of constituents have been raising questions with me about the role of the Duchy. It plays an important role in this constituency which is much appreciated.

At the same time, constituents are entitled to know what role the Duchy plays in seeking to influence the legislative process.”

Mr George was quoted in a front page article in The Guardian today. He added:

“If Princes and paupers are to live as equals in a modern Britain, anyone who enjoys exceptional influence or veto should exercise it with complete transparency,” said Andrew George, MP for West Cornwall and the Scillies, where the Duchy owns thousands of acres of lands as well as islands and homes. “The Duchy asserts that it is merely a private estate. But my constituents were astonished to learn that it appears to have effective powers of veto over the Government.”

Mr George recently raised constituents’ concerns with Government Ministers to illuminate the process of the Duke of Cornwall’s consent, without success. When asked about the consultation with the Duchy on the Children’s Rights Bill, the Education Minister, Sarah Teather, confirmed it had happened, but said: ‘We do not disclose the contents of correspondence with members of the Royal Family.’ When asked if the Duchy made any amendments to the Coroners and Justice Act, Justice Minister Crispin Blunt repeated the line.