William and Kate 'parasites' says Canadian politician
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been described as "parasites" and compared with circus performers by a Canadian politician ahead of their forthcoming tour of the country.
Amir Khadir said 'If this is a tourist attraction, I would at least appreciate it if the stakeholders involved knew that we are bringing them here kind of like we do with circus tours.' Photo: Chris Jackson/Getty Images
Prince William and his new bride Catherine chose Canada for their first official trip abroad as a married couple, which is due to take place between June 30 and July 8.
But a month before their arrival a member of the National Assembly of Quebec launched a derisive attack on the Royal couple, complaining that Canadians would have to foot much of the bill.
Amir Khadir, an Iranian-born member of the left-leaning Quebec Solidaire party described monarchy as "a parasitic system that was inherited from ancient times".
He said: "A nation worthy of the 21st Century has no need for a monarchy or people with a bloodline."
Dismissing claims from the Quebec government that the couple's visit would help promote tourism, he added: "If this is a tourist attraction, I would at least appreciate it if the stakeholders involved knew that we are bringing them here kind of like we do with circus tours."
His comments were immediately condemned by senior officials in the French-speaking province, with deputy premier Nathalie Normandeau demanding Khadir apologise.
The province's Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Pierre Moreau added: "Being at odds does not excuse being impolite."
The Duke and Duchess are due to visit Quebec for two days as part of their trip, which Canadian Heritage Minister James Moore said would cost Canadian taxpayers just under $2 million (£1.25m).
Mr Moore said security would be beefed up for the visit, with Quebec nationalists expected to stage protests.
Thursday, 2 June 2011
William and Kate 'parasites' says Canadian politician - Telegraph
via telegraph.co.uk
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