United Kingdom: A new official portrait of the King has been unveiled before being hung in buildings throughout the United Kingdom as part of a $10.1 million (£8 million) government-funded initiative.
The Cabinet Office declared last year that it had set aside money to provide free portraits of King Charles to all public bodies, including courts, schools, police departments, fire and rescue agencies, and local councils.
The King is seen in the picture donning his full military garb, which includes a large number of medals and decorations in addition to his Royal Navy uniform (he is an admiral of the fleet).
Hugo Burnand, the photographer of the king and queen’s 2005 wedding images as well as their coronation portraits, captured the image of the monarch inside Windsor Castle last year while they were dressed in full regalia.
The framed portrait is free for UK institutions such as councils, courts, schools, police departments, and fire and rescue services.
When the initiative was announced before the coronation last year, an anti-monarchy campaign group called it a “shameful waste of money.” However, the Cabinet Office has stated that the action is in keeping with tradition.
Mr. Graham Smith, chief executive of Republic, remarked that, “At a time when a majority of local councils are raising taxes and cutting public services, when schools and hospitals are struggling, to spend even £1 on this nonsense would be £1 too much.”
Meanwhile, a Cabinet Office statement said that, “The UK government considers it right that public authorities, as part of the fabric of our nation, have the opportunity to commemorate this moment [the King’s ascension], strengthen civil pride and reflect the new era in our history.”
POPULAR | UK unveils plans for largest nuclear expansion in 70 years
