King Charles II should step aside and allow Princess Kate and Prince William to succeed him, a commentator has suggested.
It comes as Denmark's Queen Margrethe II used a new year TV address to announce her surprise abdication.
According to former Labour MP Stephen Pound, King Charles should “follow suit” to allow the monarchy to undergo a revamp.
He clashed with royal commentator Charles Rae, who said Kate and William will have to wait their turn.
Stephen Pound wants King Charles to abdicate
GETTY / GB NEWS
“I think it would be a wonderful thing. He would save the monarchy”, Pound said.
“The monarchy is in a state of crisis. We have had the worst few years. Would it be a wonderful thing if King Charles said, ‘I think it’s time for a reset?’
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Charles Rae and Stephen Pound debated the topic on GB News
GB NEWS
“Let’s give them a restart. Let’s kickstart the monarchy.”
Royal reporter Charles Rae argued Charles could yet be on the throne for decades, and he therefore sees no reason for him to abdicate.
He added that Kate and William will have to “wait their turn” as the monarchy is in a “healthy” state.
“On the point of popularity, let’s not forget the King’s Speech was the most viewed programme on Christmas Day”, he said.
“The documentary about the background of The Coronation was the most viewed on Boxing Day.
“I disagree with Stephen, I don’t think the monarchy is in crisis.
“I think the monarchy is going along quite nicely and it should stay as it is.”
Pound argued the monarchy is in a position where it is no longer “respected”, adding it would be “wonderful” for it to be given a fresh start.
“For the sake of the monarchy, for the sake of the country, just say ‘I’m going to step back and let someone else have a go’,” he said.
“Not because it is impossible, but because we need a fresh start.”
