Steve Fuller's assertion that the Royal Family is "worth every penny" can only be maintained if hereditary privilege and unaccountability are admired.

For the rest of us, the Royal Family is an embarrassment and a constant reminder that unfairness, grasping unearned wealth, lack of choice and democracy are what counts at the head of this country.

An elected presidency would allow every citizen the opportunity to make it to the position of head of state.

Ireland manages the principle admirably. If the Royal Family was abolished and vacated its many palaces and castles, the tourist potential would increase.

A lack of monarchy has not hindered the tourist trade at Russian palaces.

-Roger Boniface, Hailsham