King Charles took part in a rare joint engagement with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, raising questions about whether the event ventured too far into
political territory.
The trio visited Nansledan, near Newquay, a development project initiated in 2014 that includes housing, a school, businesses, and community organizations. As Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall, Charles played a key role in shaping Nansledan, aiming to create a sustainable community that benefits residents, local businesses, and the environment.
Their visit began at Newquay Orchard, a three-acre apple orchard that produced nearly seven tonnes of food for the community in 2024. Beyond its agricultural role, the orchard serves as a hub for community events, art projects, and adult education opportunities. A passionate gardener himself, King Charles enjoyed conversations with volunteers tending to the gardens.
The King also returned to Nansledan School, a facility designed and constructed by the Duchy of Cornwall. Having officially opened the school in March 2020, he was eager to reconnect with students and observe their learning environment.
Upon their arrival, the three were greeted warmly by enthusiastic crowds, with residents lining the streets and waving from their windows.
However, the joint appearance of the Monarch alongside the country’s two highest-ranking government officials has sparked debate. Traditionally, the King remains neutral in political matters, and some commentators noted that it was difficult to recall a past instance where a reigning Monarch engaged in an issue-based visit alongside both the Prime Minister and Deputy PM.
While supporters argue that the visit was aligned with King Charles’s longstanding commitment to sustainable communities, others question whether it blurs the line between monarchy and politics. Photo by Scottish Parliament, Wikimedia commons.
