King Charles' former butler says he's 'not shocked' that staff could lose jobs

King Charles' former butler has said the news that staff at Clarence House could lose their jobs is 'not a shock'.

"When I joined, I was fully aware that if the Queen passed I would be redundant because my boss is no longer the Prince of Wales."

He added: "The good thing is, I know they will do everything possible to make sure that people are put into positions where possible - and, as I said, there will be people that want to retire or want a change of career."

While some staff may well take the opportunity to start a new chapter, doubtless many had no plans to leave their jobs, and the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) has written to the head of staff of Charles' former household asking him to halt the planned redundancies.

The union has sent a letter to Principal Private Secretary Sir Clive Alderton, asking him to stop the plans and meet with the union ahead of any future consultation.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "To issue a notice of redundancy during the period of mourning is shocking and insensitive.

"We call on Sir Clive to think again, to withdraw his letter and engage with us on any future staffing plans."

Sir Clive's letter - seen by The Guardian - read: "The change in role for our principals will also mean change for our household.

"The portfolio of work previously undertaken in this household supporting the former Prince of Wales’s personal interests, former activities and household operations will no longer be carried out, and the household […] at Clarence House will be closed down."

The letter continued: "It is therefore expected that the need for the posts principally based at Clarence House, whose work supports these areas will no longer be needed.

"I appreciate that this is unsettling news and I wanted to let you know of the support that is available at this point."

A Clarence House spokesperson said: "Following last week's accession, the operations of the household of the former Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall have ceased and, as required by law, a consultation process has begun. 

"Our staff have given long and loyal service and, while some redundancies will be unavoidable, we are working urgently to identify alternative roles for the greatest number of staff."