Top politician also backs crown prince

Kirsti Kolle Grøndahl (far right) chatted with King Harald during Thursday night's dinner at the palace, while Crown Prince Haakon and Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg (far left) also had a lot to talk about. PHOTO: SCANPIX

The president of Norway's parliament says she doesn't fear that a controversial royal romance will lead to a debate on the future of the monarchy itself. She thinks that may be a good thing.

Kirsti Kolle Grøndahl joined King Harald Thursday night in touching on the subject that has sparked wide public debate in recent months. Kolle Grøndahl said Crown Prince Haakon's decision to openly live with his girlfriend can ultimately breathe new life into the country's democracy.

"The crown prince, by following his heart, has unleashed a debate on the state of the monarchy," Kolle Grøndahl said. "No one has any reason to fear such a debate. On the contrary, it's a healthy sign in a democracy that people can argue about an institution that is so firmly placed in society."

Kolle Grøndahl acknowledged that some people may feel uncertain or insecure when they think new ground is being broken, but she claimed the country should embrace the opportunity that gives to "try out" new attitudes or situations.

Kolle Grøndahl reminded her audience of Crown Prince Haakon's solid formal education and his people-oriented qualities as reasons for also considering an increase in his annual allowance from the state. The crown priince is set to directly receive NOK 150,000 (about US$ 15,000) from state coffers next year and must otherwise rely on financial assistance from his father.

(Aftenposten)