How Much Does Canada Pay the Queen and Royalty?

Introduction

As we explore the relationship between Canada and the British monarchy, a common question arises: how much does Canada pay the Queen and the Royal family? The answer isn't as straightforward as one might think. To understand the dynamics, we need to delve into the finances and the mechanisms that support the monarchy in Canada.

Financial Support in Canada

Canada does not make direct payments to the Queen. Instead, the financial support is associated with the costs of the monarchy's presence in Canada. The Canadian government funds the expenses related to the Governor General, who is the Queen's representative in Canada, and other royal visits. Estimates suggest that the total cost to Canadian taxpayers ranges from CAD 1.5 million to CAD 2 million annually.

The costs include security, travel, and staff, but are part of a broader budget for the Governor General's office and other royal-related expenses.

Monarchy and Commonwealth Contributions

To fully understand the financial landscape, it's important to consider the broader context. Canada is the second-largest donor to the Commonwealth. In 2020-2021, the country contributed a total of CAD 10.73 million to the organization. However, this contribution does not go directly to the Queen but rather supports the broader goals of the Commonwealth.

It's also worth noting that the Royal family members, including the Queen and Prince Charles, do not receive direct financial support from Canadian taxpayers. Instead, they support their families from the revenues of their private estates, such as the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall.

The Sovereign Grant

The Sovereign Grant Act 2011 came into effect in April 2012. This act sets the single grant that supports the Queen's official business and enables her to perform her duties as Head of State. Here's a breakdown of how the Sovereign Grant is used:

Central staff costs and running expenses of the Queen's official household. Maintenance of the Royal Palaces in England. Costs of travel and other royal engagements.

The Sovereign Grant is a percentage of the revenues from the Crown estate, which are paid directly into the Treasury.

The Queen's Private Income

While the Sovereign Grant supports the public duties of the Queen, she also has her own private income. Since 1337, the heir to the throne has had access to the income from the Duchy of Cornwall. Prince Charles, the current heir, uses this income to fund various activities, including approximately ￡21 million last year. This money covers public, private, and charitable activities, including supporting his family. The total amount given to share between his son's families was ￡5 million last year, but the split details are not publicly available.

The Queen also has access to the revenues of the Duchy of Lancaster and her own private investments and business interests. For example, her stud farm is quite successful. She uses her private income to support the state duties already mentioned and to financially support various members of her family.

Security Costs

When it comes to royal security, the cost to Canadian taxpayers is the only expense they bear. The security detailed for the Royal family is additional and not included in the Sovereign Grant. In essence, the public is getting a real bargain, as the Royal family's personal expenses are covered through their own funds.

Conclusion

The relationship between Canada and the British monarchy is complex and multifaceted. While Canada does contribute to the broader support of the monarchy, there are no direct payments to the Queen or the Royal family. Instead, the costs are distributed through public funds and private resources. Understanding these dynamics can help shed light on the true financial landscape of the monarchy's presence in Canada.