Prince Charles, who turns 70 next week, has promised not to be a meddling king in a BBC documentary about his birthday. In the documentary "Prince, Son and Heir: Charles at 70," the heir to UK’s throne addressed some of his previous interferences in a number of public issues that have "ruffled feathers."
"I'm not that stupid. I do realise that it is a separate exercise, being sovereign. So, of course, I understand entirely how that should operate," Charles said.
He claimed that he had tried to make sure whatever he had done had been “non-party political”, saying “you can't be the same as the sovereign if you're the Prince of Wales or the heir."
"But the idea somehow that I'm going to go on exactly the same way if I have to succeed is complete nonsense because the two… the two situations are completely different. You only have to look at Shakespeare plays, 'Henry V' or 'Henry IV, Part 1 and 2,' to see the change that can take place — because if you become the sovereign, then you play the role in the way that it is expected," the heir insisted.
However, he opined that the public would appreciate it if he made some contribution to society.
"So, as you imagine, I was much encouraged to take an interest. I think people by now would have been rather fed up if I hadn't, I would have thought," he said.
In contrast to his mother Queen Elizabeth II, who has remained above the political fray, Charles has tried to intervene in some issues of public concern, writing letters to ministers, speaking out about climate change and opposing an extension to the National Gallery in London.
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Although the full interview has yet to be aired, this teaser alone has stirred up netizens.
Some mocked the Prince, hinting that he may have to wait a bit longer before he can put on the crown.
Others opposed the idea of abandoning his active support for environmental protection.
There were those who predicted a grim future for the royal family.