Queen cancels staff Christmas party

October 6, 2010

Proving that even the royal household is not immune to the credit crunch, the Queen has announced that this year's £50,000 staff Christmas party is to be cancelled.

Citing the 'difficult financial circumstances' facing the country, Her Majesty has drawn a line under plans for any festive celebrations for her loyal staff this year.

The 600 members of the Royal Household, drawn from three royal residences and those working on the queen's private estates, had been expecting to attend a festive celebration, accompanied by a guest, at Buckingham Palace on 13 December. The Queen usually pays for this special event once every two years.

A Palace spokesman said, “The Queen is acutely aware of the difficult economic circumstances facing the country.

“It was decided it was appropriate for the Royal Household to show restraint and therefore not hold the party this year,” the spokesman added.

One worker said, “It's the first time in memory the party's been cancelled. We're all devastated as it's a great night when everyone lets their hair down. The Royals mix freely with servants - it's normal to see the Queen dancing with a footman or Prince Philip waltzing with a maid.

“The champagne flows like water and you feel your hard work has been appreciated. This won't go down well,” the worker added.