'Buckingham Palace has to earn its keep with £397 million of public money being spent on it'

Buckingham Palace is undergoing a £397 million refurbishment, despite King Charles and Queen Camilla not residing there post-renovation. The palace will still serve as the central hub for royal operations. This hefty public investment prompts questions about the palace's relevance and value in contemporary times, highlighting a broader debate about the role and funding of the monarchy. The debate isn't just about money but also about the public's perception of the royal family's place in modern society.