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BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

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Programme examining the ideas and forces which shape public policy in Britain and abroad.

Programme examining the ideas and forces which shape public policy in Britain and abroad, presented by distinguished writers, journalists and academics.

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Analysis: King Charles' Challenge

13/03/2023

King Charles' Challenge

BBC Radio 4 - Analysis, King Charles' Challenge

As the coronation approaches, we ask what the future holds for the monarchy and its king.

As the coronation approaches, we ask how the new king deals with dwindling public support and challenges to the church, union and Commonwealth.

The Queen’s funeral appeared a resounding reassertion of our enduring commitment to monarchy, but was it a tribute to her rather than the institution? As the coronation approaches, polls suggest support is at its lowest ever, and the King faces difficult questions on several fronts.
As supreme Governor of the Church of England, congregation numbers are falling and divisions are deepening over its stance on gay marriage.
The union is under threat – what would the monarchy mean if Scotland votes for independence and Northern Ireland joins the Republic?
Commonwealth countries from the Caribbean to the Pacific are asking whether it still makes sense to keep a king in London as their head of state.
The coronation will be a grand reminder of our history, but hanging over everything is a dark chapter in that history; the monarchy’s role in the slave trade. If the King is to represent all his subjects, does he need to say sorry? And what about reparations? 

Edward Stourton will unravel the challenges and ask how the King meets them.

Presenter: Edward Stourton 
Producer: Jonathan IAnson
Editor: Clare Fordham

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