Front Page

UK

World

Business

Sci/Tech

Sport

Despatches

World Summary


On Air

Cantonese

Talking Point

Feedback

Text Only

Help

Site Map

Tuesday, January 6, 1998 Published at 09:54 GMT



Talking Point

Should the Queen be accountable?

The Queen has now commissioned Mori, who carry out market research, to interview 'focus groups' about how the Royal Family is perceived by the public.

Focus groups have already been asked for their opinion about the Royal Family and Mori is now preparing a report that will be seen by the Queen and other members of the family. Many companies use this technique to research what their customers want.

After the death of Diana this year, the Queen made public her desire for the monarchy to change. Such research has been carried out before, but should a monarchy use market researchers to find out how it is received by its subjects?

Are there other ways for the Queen to be in touch with her people? Many people would say that the monarchy should rule, not be ruled. Others say if the royals represent Britain then they should a least know what the public think. How far will this change in the monarchy go?

Should the Queen be accountable?

My answer is no, unless you want to give her power to rule...
A. Noronha, Brazil

It is a good idea for the Queen to find out how she is perceived by the people...
Elaine Woobey, Scotland

The real question is whether or not there should be a monarchy at all...
Steve Cleary, UK


Your reaction in full






Back to top | BBC News Home | BBC Homepage

©

  Your reaction in full  
  Live Talking Points

Have you broken your resolutions?

Has Diana's death changed Britain?

What do you predict for 1998?

Has the Labour government changed Britain for the better?

Should governments control Internet encryption?