William 'sets good example to youth'

Young people feel Prince William sets a better example of how to live than either his father or the Queen, according to a new poll.

Asked which royal set the best example, 88% of a random sample of 16-24 year olds said Prince William. Next nearest were the Queen (69%), and Prince Harry and Princess Anne (68%). The Prince of Wales was down at 55%.

The ICM research for tomorrow's News of the World found also 44% identified most with William, compared with 6% for the Queen and 3% Prince Charles.

Nearly half thought minor royals should be stripped of the HRH titles, and 93% thought they should earn their own living, with just 5% thinking taxpayers' money should be used to support them.

Almost three-quarters (74%) thought royals should not be allowed to use their titles in private business.

Only 10% thought royals were important to their life while 82% thought royals were over-privileged and 80% out of touch.

More than four-fifths (81%) thought they were good for tourism, though, 79% they were good for charities, and 71% thought they gave Britain prestige abroad.

Only two-fifths (40%) thought they boosted British trade, and less than half (49%) said they gave a moral example.

More than a quarter (26%) thought there would not be a monarchy in 10 years - and only 50% thought there would be a monarchy in 50 years, falling to just 39% in 100 years. Nearly three-fifths (59%) would not cross the road to see the Queen if she came to visit their town.

:: ICM Research interviewed a random sample of 502 16 - 24 year olds by telephone on October 29 and 30.

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