Republic would end marriage puzzle (From Western Telegraph)

Republic would end marriage puzzle

DEAR EDITOR, - Claims by senior constitutional experts that the Charles and Camilla wedding may be unlawful raise serious concerns that would not arise in a republic.

It is absurd that a private matter such as a marriage between two adults can turn into a constitutional crisis.

But in a hereditary monarchy that distinguishes so starkly between royalty and other citizens, the legality of the planned civil wedding obviously needs to be cleared up.

Britain cannot have a situation in which the future head of state is surrounded by such legal uncertainty about his marriage.

A democratic alternative to monarchy, in which the bloodline and marriages play no part, would bring an end to this royal farce.

Only in a monarchy does our constitution become a family affair.

This nonsense is embarrassing to both the engaged couple and to Britain.

Charles and Camilla should be free to marry and the British people should be free to choose their head of state.

JOHN CAMPBELL, Glenburnie, Port Road, Wenvoe, Cardiff.