King Charles uses first Christmas speech to address cost of living crisis

In his first ever Christmas speech following the death of the Queen, King Charles III addressed the cost of living crisis.

This winter has been tough enough for millions of UK households due to soaring food and energy costs.

And the crisis has only been exacerbated by Christmas, aka the most expensive time of the year.

Top this with NHS, National Rail and Royal Mail strikes and it seems the country is in a bit of a mess right now.

While speaking to the nation today, Charles - who definitely doesn't have to worry about financial struggles - addressed the ongoing crisis.

He said: "At this time of great anxiety and hardship, be it for those around the world facing conflict, famine or natural disaster, or for those at home finding ways to pay their bills and keep their families fed and warm, we see it in the humanity of people throughout our nations and the Commonwealth who so readily respond to the plight of others.

PA

"I particularly want to pay tribute to all those wonderfully kind people who so generously give food or donations, or that most precious commodity of all, their time, to support those around them in greatest need, together with the many charitable organisations which do such extraordinary work in the most difficult circumstances.

"Our churches, synagogues, mosques, temples and gurdwaras, have once again united in feeding the hungry, providing love and support throughout the year.

"Such heartfelt solidarity is the most inspiring expression of loving our neighbour as our self.

"The Prince and Princess of Wales recently visited Wales, shining a light on practical examples of this community spirit."

The speech has received mixed reviews from viewers back at home, with one writing: "Charles thanking volunteers for trying to feed people while standing in a palace feels a bit hypocritical."

Another, who was a little more blunt on the matter, said: "Charles going on about the cost of living when he won’t even know the price of a loaf of bread. F**k off."

A third, who called for the UK to 'ditch the monarchy', added: "But it doesn't make him think it's obscene for so much money to be spent on a coronation."

YouTube/The Royal Family

On the other side of the coin, not everyone felt it was hypocritical.

"The King has done so marvellously in his first Christmas Day speech," said one user.

Another chimed in: "King Charles delivered a wonderful first Christmas speech."

And then there were those who saw both sides, including this person who commented: "Great speech from Charles on grief, our multi/non-faith culture and people mucking in to help each other out.

"But I can’t ever get past a KING talking about the cost-of-living crisis."