King to continue Soil Association patronage

After 25 years of supporting the Soil Association (SA) it has been announced that King Charles will retain his patronage of the organic charity and certifier in his role as Monarch.

As Prince of Wales, Charles’ longstanding support of organic and nature-friendly farming was well documented. But ahead of his Coronation, many in the organic industry questioned whether as King he would break with the tradition of remaining tight-lipped on matters of political, social and environmental belief, or bring his campaigning work to a close. In his capacity as Prince of Wales he is once quoted to have said: “The idea, somehow, that I am going to go on in exactly the same way if I have to succeed, is complete nonsense … It will no longer be possible to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I cared so deeply, but I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.”

Now, following a ‘major review’ of over 1,000 Royal Patronages and charity Presidencies, The Royal Family has confirmed that His Majesty will retain his SA patronage, continuing his endorsement of organic.

A champion for nature

Helen Browning, chief executive of the SA, comments: “We are delighted that His Majesty King Charles will remain our patron. At the Soil Association we have been very fortunate to have worked closely with King Charles during his many years of extraordinary charitable work as the Prince of Wales.

“I feel privileged to know him as a fellow organic farmer with a lifelong dedication to healthy, sustainable food, and as a champion for nature, the countryside and its people.

“King Charles III Charitable Fund has supported more than 120 farmer-led research trials with our Innovative Farmers network – but his support goes far beyond financial generosity.

“He follows the work of pioneering farmers with avid fascination and takes inspiration from them. We look forward to sharing more with the King as the Soil Association pursues a nature-friendly future with his support.”

By Rosie Greenaway, editor