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Ways and Means
01 September 2026
Lead MP
Dan Tomlinson
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyParliamentary ProcedureStandards & Ethics
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Dan Tomlinson raised concerns about ways and means in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Moves to amend the Sovereign Grant Act 2011 to specify the amount of the Sovereign Grant for the financial year 2027-28 and to confer a duty and power on the Treasury to specify the amount of the Sovereign Grant in subsequent financial years in certain circumstances. The motion also acknowledges the completion of the Buckingham Palace reservicing programme and the need to review the current level of funding.
James Wild
Con
Grimsby
Supports the motion, highlighting the unique role of the monarchy in British society, the economic benefits of the institution, and the need for a sustainable funding framework. Questions the Minister about the details of the new funding baseline, the rationale behind the changes to the golden ratchet provision, and the transparency of the royal household's cost base.
Lisa Smart
LD
Hazel Grove
Explains that the sovereign grant funds the work of the institution and highlights the importance of transparency in the use of public funds. She also raises concerns about the funding of royal funerals and the need for detailed reporting requirements.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Acknowledges the need for transparency and value for money, while emphasising the immeasurable service, stability, and global prestige provided by the monarchy. He also welcomes the commitment to reduce the sovereign grant to £99.9 million for the 2027-28 financial year.
Government Response
Responds to questions from Members on the increase in the value of the sovereign grant above inflation, the role of the trustees in setting the grant, the focus on external benchmarking, and the need for transparency. He also clarifies that the sovereign grant is focused on official duties and does not fund private activities.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.