Little enthusiasm for former King's plea for more money

The government has no intention of changing the Civil List payment made to former King Albert “either directly or indirectly,” prime minister Elio Di Rupo told parliament yesterday. Earlier in the week the former king, who stepped down in July (photo), had asked for an extended expenses allowance, since his payment was not permitting him to maintain his accustomed living standard.

While king, Albert received 11.5 million; as a former sovereign his payment from public funds has gone down to €923,000.  He is also required for the first time to pay VAT and excise duty on purchases. He now also pays personal income tax on a portion of his income from the state. According to reports, he views his current situation as a sign of ingratitude for his two decades on the throne, and fears his holidays abroad could be at risk.

“The government and I are happy with the reform of civil list payments, and the transparency of the funding of the monarchy,” Di Rupo told MPs. The level of the former king's payment had been decided by ministers, and later approved by Senate and Chamber, he said.