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Taxpayers to reportedly fund $1.9 million Megxit bill

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 07: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex leave Canada House on January 07, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage)
Canadian taxpayers reportedly to fund Meghan and Harry's security bill. Source: Getty

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly offered to fund the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s £1 million (AU$1.9 million) annual bill if they were to move to Canada.

According to the Evening Standard, Trudeau said there are still some discussions to be had about the details of Meghan and Harry’s move, but it has been reported the prime minister agrees that half of the couple’s million-dollar security bill will be paid for by Canadian taxpayers.

But while Trudeau has reportedly privately promised the Queen that the Duke and Duchess’ safety would not be jeopardised while they reside in Canada, a poll conducted in August 2017 found Canadian taxpayers aren’t too keen on supporting the monarchy.

In fact, the poll found 41 per cent of Canadians wanted to abolish the monarchy following the death or abdication of the Queen, and the director of the Canadian Taxpayers’ Federation, Aaron Wudrick, also raised concerns about the footing the bill.

“I don’t think it’s reasonable to expect us to pay for everything the way we do for a royal visit,” Wudrick said.

“If they’re going to make Canada a second home, a good step in the right direction would be to pay for at least part of it, and not rely on taxpayers to fund their entire lifestyle.”

Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau today revealed the federal government had not yet decided if it would help cover the security costs associated with the move.

"No, we haven't spent any time thinking about this issue," Morneau told CBC.

"We obviously are always looking to make sure, as a member of the Commonwealth, we play a role. We have not had any discussions on that subject at this time."

The news follows the Queen’s statement released today, which revealed there was “some work to be done” in regards to Meghan and Harry’s plans to split from the Royal Family.

“Harry and Meghan have made clear that they do not want to be reliant on public funds in their new lives,” the Queen stated.

“It has therefore been agreed that there will be a period of transition in which the Sussexes will spend time in Canada and the UK.

“These are complex matters for my family to resolve, and there is some more work to be done, but I have asked for final decisions to be reached in the coming days.”

What is a security bill?

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