The UK Parliament has unanimously approved £99.9 million in Sovereign Grant funding for the royal family for the 2027-28 financial year. This decision came during a debate on the Sovereign Grant Bill, which aims to modify existing laws by allowing more flexibility in how much funding the royal family receives each year. Previously, the royal household was set to receive £137.9 million in the 2026-27 financial year, with a significant portion of that money going toward upgrading Buckingham Palace. A temporary increase in the grant had been in place over a 10-year period to fund these upgrades. Now, with the palace’s plumbing and wiring work completed, the grant has been reduced to £99.9 million. Some members of Parliament expressed concerns about the use of public funds. Brian Leishman, a Labour MP, criticized the spending, arguing that public money "could and should be directed elsewhere" during a time when many people are struggling. He also noted that the royal family is estimated to be worth £21 billion, raising questions about the necessity of public funding. Leishman said his patriotism is not tied to the monarchy, emphasizing that the public should have a say in how their taxes are spent. Treasury minister Torsten Bell defended the funding, stating that the Sovereign Grant is essential for the monarch to carry out their official duties. These include maintaining staff, covering travel expenses, and ensuring the upkeep of royal properties and services. Bell explained that the grant supports the monarch in hosting foreign leaders, engaging in diplomacy, and representing the UK internationally, which helps promote trade, investment, and national security. He argued that the proposed changes to the bill would allow for more stable and appropriate funding levels in the future. Liberal Democrat spokesman Bobby Dean raised concerns about transparency, asking where the money is going and who benefits from it. He specifically questioned whether any funds would go to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former prince who has faced controversy. Deputy Speaker Caroline Nokes reminded the chamber that the discussion should remain focused on the scope of the Sovereign Grant Bill, which deals with the amount of funding and how it is determined in future years. She clarified that the grant is given to the King and is not directed to individuals outside the royal family. Under the new bill, the percentage of the Crown Estate’s net profits that go toward the Sovereign Grant will increase to around 20.5%, up from the current 12%. The bill now moves to the House of Lords for further review before it can become law.