In September 2023, King Charles and Queen Camilla attended a lavish dinner at the Palace of Versailles during a three-day state visit to France. The event, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, cost the French President’s office nearly €475,000 ($515,000), according to data revealed by France’s public auditor. The extravagant affair included around 180 guests such as Mick Jagger, Hugh Grant, Emma Mackey, and Charlotte Gainsbourg, who were treated to delicacies like crab cakes, blue lobster, and champagne-marinated chicken.
The overall expenses associated with the Élysée Palace in 2023 amounted to €125 million ($136 million), a 14% increase from the previous year. This included over €166,000 ($180,000) on catering and €42,000 ($46,000) on decorations, furniture, and flowers for the state dinner. The audit office highlighted the necessity for “significant efforts” in 2024 to maintain financial balance and revealed that a state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cost €412,000 ($447,000).
Queen Camilla and King Charles III with President of France Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron attended State Dinner in honor of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the Hall of Mirrors of the Palace of Versailles on 20 September 2023 in Versailles Paris France. pic.twitter.com/500UAED021
— joydreamslink (@joydreamslink) September 22, 2023
King Charles and President Macron had a dinner last night.
They’d like you to reduce your carbon footprint. pic.twitter.com/bb0E1tyiQL
— John LeFevre (@JohnLeFevre) September 22, 2023
The European Union has issued a warning to France regarding its budget deficit, which is the largest among the 27 EU member states, and national debt standing at around 111% of GDP.
The revelation of these expenses has sparked reactions from both Britons and French citizens. Many criticized the high spending amid economic challenges, while others defended the monarchy, pointing out that the expenses were the responsibility of the French President. Social media reactions ranged from criticism of the monarchy’s privileged life to comments about the French government’s spending priorities amidst rising national debt and economic difficulties.
– One user criticized the monarchy’s privileged lifestyle, emphasizing that they serve no profit or ruling function.
– Another defended King Charles, suggesting the French President should be blamed for the costs.
– A third user expressed frustration, stating that the elites are mocking the public.
– A Briton pointed out that it was French taxpayers who paid, not the British.
– A French citizen lamented that their hard-earned money was funding such events, highlighting the plight of people relying on food banks.
– Another commenter criticized the expenditure, pointing out the irony given the existence of hungry children in the UK.
