A brand new, official portrait of the King has been unveiled – forward of being hung in buildings throughout the UK as a part of an £8m government-funded scheme.
The {photograph} reveals the King in his full army regalia, sporting his Royal Navy uniform – as he’s an admiral of the fleet – and an abundance of medals and decorations.
His pristine white gloves and hat could be seen on an vintage desk and, in his left hand, he grasps a sword.
The monarch was photographed within the Grand Corridor at Windsor Castle final yr by Hugo Burnand, who additionally took the King and Queen’s coronation portraits and 2005 wedding ceremony photographs.
Councils, courts, faculties, police forces and fireplace and rescue providers are among the many UK establishments that may apply to obtain the framed portrait at no cost.
An anti-monarchy marketing campaign group branded the initiative a “shameful waste of money” when it was introduced earlier than the coronation final yr, however the Cabinet Office has mentioned the transfer continues a convention.
Graham Smith, chief government of Republic, mentioned: “At a time when a majority of local councils are raising taxes and cutting public services, when schools and hospitals are struggling, to spend even £1 on this nonsense would be £1 too much.”
He additionally mentioned the federal government “has lost the plot if they think people want their money spent on pictures of Charles”, calling for the scheme to be scrapped and the cash directed “where it’s really needed”.
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden has mentioned that “displaying this new portrait will serve as a reminder to us all of the example set by our ultimate public servant”.
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A Cabinet Office assertion mentioned: “The UK government considers it right that public authorities, as part of the fabric of our nation, have the opportunity to commemorate this moment [the King’s ascension], strengthen civil pride and reflect the new era in our history.”
The scheme can be prolonged to incorporate city, parish and group councils and Ministry of Defence-sponsored cadet forces in February with all portraits anticipated to be delivered between February and April this yr.
Source: information.sky.com”