Over 80,000 Canadians signed petition demanding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex pay their own security while they are in Canada.
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation started the petition as Laurel Collins, the MP for Victoria where Meghan and Harry are staying, said taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to pay for the couple’s security.
Meghan and Harry are on Vancouver Island as they prepare to start a new life with their son Archie after stepping back as senior royals.
It is not clear who will pay for their security when they leave the monarchy. But a former Home Office minister warned that the British citizens could encounter a huge bill while it has been speculated a ‘cost-sharing’ deal between Canada and the UK could be agreed.
Such an agreement would be opposed by Ms. Collins who said: “Yes, I hope that they’re planning on covering their security costs.
“When it comes to the money our government spends and taxpayer money it’s important that we put this into context and think about our priorities.
“That we’re prioritising making life more affordable for people, that we’re prioritising protecting our environment and that we’re spending our tax dollars on the things that really matter to Canadians.”
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation started the petition which called for “no taxpayer support” for the couple. It received over 80,000 signatures in only six days.
The group’s director said: “Canadians are pleased to welcome the Duke and Duchess to Canada, but have made it crystal clear that taxpayers should not be forced to support them while they are living here.
“Our view is that Prime Minister Trudeau needs to respect the wishes of Canadians and make clear that while the Duke and Duchess are welcome in Canada, they must pay their own way!”
Ms. Collins said that she wanted to focus on young families who ‘might be struggling with the housing crisis or struggling with affordability.’
“I want to make sure we are thinking about our priorities,” she added.
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Replaced!