Belgian premier insists retired King Albert won’t get more money to pay costs

BRUSSELS – In these times of financial crisis, is 923,000 euros ($1.2 million) a year enough for a retired king to make ends meet?

Belgium’s King Albert stepped down last summer, seeing his funding fall from 11.5 million euros ($15.4 million). Newspapers said the king had sent out feelers for more funds to meet costs, and the government was quick to react.

Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo, a red-blooded socialist of poor immigrant background, told Parliament on Thursday that “the government does not intend to change a comma,” reaping much warm applause from government parties and opposition alike.

The royal family has been involved in several financial scandals over the past few years.

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Raf Casert

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