We're all in this together,I don't think so,I know we're not.

I quote the now well used phrase "we are all in this together"Some people are more in it than others.

  People have been sacked in the name of austerity,to save money,for the government.People have had wage cuts,no pay rises and a drop in benefits,all in the name of saving money.

  However,one group of people have had double figure pay rise.

 Royalty,the queen has had an increase of 16% of taxpayers money,taking her payment to over £36milliom,Prince Charles had an 11% increase in his money from the taxpayer last year to take his amount from the taxpayer to £2.2 million.

  I pose the question,apart from doing opening ceremonies and making speeches,just what do they do for the taxpayer's money they receive?

  Royalty is from a bygone age and it's about time it was consigned to the past,it's a luxury the country can no longer afford. 

Too many 'hangers on' George that's the biggest problem. Other than that I think the Queen does a good job.

What say you members?

I agree with you Ron, James, I think the Queen does a good job, and I don't agree that Royalty are from a bygone age at all. Look at how many tourists and how many people all over the world enjoyed the Jubilee last year, and how many people flock here for other events, Royal weddings etc. We have (new) family now in Germany and they adore the Queen and everything she stands for. We have friends who are Americans, Spaniards and Italians who all think the same, they actually envy what we have in the Royal family.

Has for 'hangers on' yes far to many. 

Rusty Ruth,If there was a vote and it was decided that those who didn't want to contribute to the upkeep of Royalty didn't have to,it was found that those who did want Royalty to be kept in the manner that they were accustomed would have to pay £20 a week due to the shortfall in funding.

  Would you be willing to stump up the money? 

Ah, but there hasn't been a vote, and I don't think one is likely to happen or is being planned to my knowledge. So your question cannot in reality be answered, like many questions it's just hyperthetical, you could apply that arguement to many things in life.  I never use public transport but I suspect I pay more than I think towards it for the benefit of others - and I don't mind , I just do it