Prince Charles has secret veto power

LONDON, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- A little-known loophole in the British Constitution has been used several times to allow Prince Charles to exert veto power on government bills, lawmakers say.

Ministers have sought the prince's consent on at least 12 bills since 2005 through a secretive constitutional loophole that gives him the right to veto legislation that may impact his private life, The Guardian reported.

Lawmakers have asked Prince Charles to draft bills on issues such as road safety, gambling, and the London Olympics. Neither the government nor prince of Wales representatives will reveal what, if any, amendments to legislation the prince has requested, or why he was asked for his consent.

"Communications between the prince or his household and the government are confidential under a long-standing convention that protects the heir to the throne's right to be instructed in the business of government in preparation for his future role as monarch," said a spokesman for the heir to the British throne.

Officials have called for the immediate publication of the prince's use of this loophole over concern that he is interfering in British politics.

"We should know why he is being asked and the government should publish the answers," said Lord Berkeley, who was last month told to seek Charles' consent on a marine navigation bill. "If he is given these powers purely because he owns land in Cornwall it is pretty stupid. What about the other landowners who must also be affected by changes to legislation?"

The controversy comes after concern has been raised about the prince overstepping his role by lobbying ministers directly on issues such as traditional architecture and the environment.