The head of state arrived in Milton Keynes to find protesters welcoming him with boos and anti-monarchy chants. Charles arrived at The Church of Christ the Cornerstone in the English city, hours after a small crowd of protesters organized by the group Republic – which campaigns in favor of the election of the head of state in the UK – started gathering.
The King, accompanied only by his security detail, appeared unfazed by people chanting “Not our King” and holding bright yellow signs protesting him.
Rather than walk away, the 74-year-old monarch decided to go near the fences where both the booing protesters and many cheering royal fans were and started shaking hands and exchanging words with some of his supporters.
After a few minutes spent with the Union Jack-waving crowd, the King left with a huge smile on his face and walked inside the church to attend the reception attended by members of the local community and Milton Keynes officials.
Among the organizations represented at the reception were the Milton Keynes Islamic Arts, Heritage and Culture (MKIAC), Milton Keynes Theatre, Bletchley Park, the Open University, the local Council of Faiths and Ride High.
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Anti-monarchy demonstrators started gathering in Milton Keynes at around noon, after announcing on Wednesday their plan to stage a protest.
A spokesperson for Republic told Express.co.uk on Wednesday while speaking about the upcoming protest: “Republic is concerned about recent police harassment of peaceful protesters at royal events.
“We’re determined to get the message across that it’s ok to protest against the royals. Instead of a pointless Coronation, we need a serious public debate.
“We believe the British public should be asked, do you want Charles or a choice? The tide is starting to turn against the monarchy and we need a serious debate about its future.”
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The anti-monarchy activist referred to the string of protests that have been taking place up and down the country during royal appearances since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September last year.
Prior to the King’s arrival, royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams expressed his views on the protest staged by the anti-monarchy group.
He told Express.co.uk: “Republic have, of course, a right to peaceful protest but I hope they don’t do this regularly. They are unlikely to do themselves much good!
“This pressure group always planned to be more active once Charles ascended the throne.
“Polls still show Britain to be overwhelmingly in favor of keeping the monarchy, although the institution has a problem with support from 18-24 year olds after the attacks from the Sussexes.
“I doubt the appearance of a few Republican placards will, however, make any difference!”
