King Charles’s moves to bring his top team into the Palace are well underway as one of the Queen’s most senior aides is stepping aside, according to sources.
Following the expected departure of the late Queen’s top aide her private secretary Sir Edward Young, now it’s the turn of her money man Sir Michael Stevens.
The Keeper of the Privy Purse Sir Michael Stevens, effectively now King Charles’s accountant, is said to be stepping down after 20 years serving Queen Elizabeth.
The move has been announced internally, but not yet publicly as it is still not known who will take the role.
But there is good news for the dashing equerry Major Johnny Thompson, who is set to stay on the King’s payroll.
Major Thompson of the 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland is something of a right-hand man to Charles. The King wants him to stay on as a member of the Royal Household rather than return to his regiment for his final 18 months of service.
Major Thompson has been dubbed major eye candy after going viral on several occasions thanks to his dashing good looks.
The King wants the married major, who has made himself indispensable as his equerry, to help organise his private diary and more delicate family matters.
Charles plans over time to axe an estimated one in five of his middle-management staff to boost the Royal Household’s efficiency.
Charles and Camilla are said to be irritated by what they believe to be too many staff doing similar jobs at the various palaces.
He is also weary of senior courtiers telling him: ‘But that’s how the Queen did it.’ Hence, why he wants to build his own team.
One source said: “The King is determined to have his own people in the positions that matter at the palace. He knows it may take a little time but he is determined it will happen.”
Buckingham Palace has been contacted for comment.
