The sovereign's public estate managed by a semi-independent body
A fire at the Grand Burstin hotel in Folkestone started in the basement, with around 280 people evacuated. Ten fire engines remain on site to dampen hotspots; no injuries have been reported. A welfare centre is in use and authorities urge residents nearby to stay clear and close windows.
The monarchy remains under public and parliamentary scrutiny as new royal accounts disclose how much tax the King has paid and how royal funds are allocated. The Sovereign Grant, Duchy of Lancaster income, and private assets are outlined, with transparency urged amid ongoing questions about deductibles and private wealth.
The Crown Estate has posted a drop in revenue account profit to £487m for the year, down from £1.1bn, with most of the decline tied to fading offshore wind option fees as wind farm projects move into construction. Net asset value, however, rose to £16.7bn amid higher property values. Marine profits rose to £175m, while real estate and development profits increased to £258m.