“Despite the economic problems, the British will celebrate this”, says a former Tory MP

“Despite economic problems and a depression over the state of the world, Britons will celebrate” the coronation of King Charles III, Saturday in London, estimates, Friday, May 5, on franceinfo the former conservative deputy Dominic Grieve. While a YouGov poll points to the disagreement of 51% of the British with the cost of the festivities, he recalls that “the British economy will recover much more than spending” thanks to “the arrival of tourists”.

franceinfo: Is there a form of fervor in Great Britain?

Dominic Grieve: Yes, and it shows! Just arrived in central London, there are people settling in for the night and to see the parade on Saturday. In my street, we will organize a “street party” [fête de rue]. There will also be 3,000 to 4,000 on Saturday throughout England. Despite the economic problems and a depression on the state of the world, people will therefore still celebrate.

Does the walkabout that the king offered himself on Friday mark a change of style with Queen Elisabeth II?

Yes it is certain ! Elizabeth II came to the throne at age 26. She had therefore not had the opportunity to develop a significant personality for the public. Given his constitutional role, it was much more difficult to do so after his accession to the throne.

“King Charles has had a lot of years as Prince of Wales, he’s a much more laid back personality and quite approachable. This change will be appreciated.

Dominic Grieve, former Conservative MP

at franceinfo

In the eight months he has been king, he continues to maintain his constitutional position impeccably.

Is the cost of the festivities controversial when according to a YouGov poll, a majority of Britons would prefer that the royal family pay?

I don’t think it’s particularly controversial. The UK economy will recover far more than spending. The arrival of tourists boosts the economy. Of course, there are people who are not monarchists and therefore they are not interested. But we are in a democracy. When you look at public opinion in general, I don’t have the impression that there is any controversy at all.