SIR – I read with interest your column (Without Harry and Meghan, how long will the Royal Family last? January 10) regarding the future of the Royal Family.

Personally, I am neither a monarchist nor a republican – our current system has many faults, but I can imagine worse.

My main criticism is the cost to the taxpayer of the security provided, which I read recently amounts to more than £100 million per annum, with some of the police officers involved earning over £100k per annum for what must be the cushiest job any police officer could have. It is an insult to the average constable, who is facing daily threats and aggravation for a lot less.

This security is in place whether or not the Royals are performing public duties.

It would make more sense for every member of the Royal Family, other than the monarch, to be responsible for covering their own security costs, which should be delegated to private security companies.

This would free up a lot of officers to do proper police work, e.g. the prevention and detection of crime. 

Brian Watkins

Pershore