(05/26/10) -

Feelings About Monarchy Split Canadians

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) – People in Canada are divided in their assessment of the current form of government, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 36 per cent of respondents would prefer to have an elected head of state, while 33 per cent want Canada to remain a monarchy.

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) – People in Canada are divided in their assessment of the current form of government, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 36 per cent of respondents would prefer to have an elected head of state, while 33 per cent want Canada to remain a monarchy.

Under the terms of the Canadian Constitution, Queen Elizabeth II holds the position of Canada’s head of state. The Queen—who has been the monarch of 16 independent nations since February 1952—turned 84 in April.

Prince Charles is first in line to succeed Queen Elizabeth II, followed by his two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. In April 2005, Charles married long-time companion Camilla Parker Bowles in a civil ceremony. Parker Bowles became the Duchess of Cornwall after the marriage, and has declared she would take the title of Princess Consort in the event Prince Charles becomes King.

Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, Prince Philip, are scheduled to visit Canada from Jun. 28 to Jul. 6—a period that includes the Canada Day celebration on Jul. 1.

On May 19, Canadian prime minister Stephen Harper discussed the visit, saying, "Royal tours present a wonderful opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our constitutional monarchy, one of the pillars upon which our country is founded. They are an important part of our history, traditions and institutions."

Polling Data

Thinking about Canada’s constitution, which of these options would you prefer?

Complete Poll (PDF)