SYDNEY: Prince Charles has rejected a cheeky invitation from republicans Down Under to explain why he rather than an Australian should be their next head of state once the Queen dies or steps down, they said on Wednesday. The Australian Republican Movement officially asked the heir to the British throne to address a “friendly and respectful” audience during his visit to the country in April for the Commonwealth Games. “It appears the prince is unable to answer this question,” said Australian Republic Movement national director Michael Cooney after receiving a response from Clarence House declining. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull favors a republic, but has previously suggested the issue will not be debated during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. The silence of the man who will become Australia’s head of state about why he should have the job is hardly reassuring.” AFPAFP/CC

Source: Manila Times March 21, 2018 01:30 UTC