The recent protestor who infiltrated Buckingham Palace dressed as Batman and stood on a ledge has raised questions regarding the security for the Royal dwelling. Despite the initial calls to increase security measures there and other monuments throughout the country, which would result in limited access to the public, other voices in the government said other options would be considered.

The fact that someone could so easily penetrate the Palace raises a different question in regards to the Royal family of England. It is something that is constantly being debated within circles of the United Kingdom, is whether or not the Royal Family is even relevant anymore? Certainly from a historical and tabloid perspective they are, as witnessed by the constant feeding frenzy around Prince’s William and Harry. But on a more substantial level, considering they no longer have any real governmental authority, what is the point of them?

Although there are still countries that are ruled by Monarchs, the leader of Great Britain at this moment is the Prime Minister. Such has been the case for centuries and the last Royal who wielded any power was Queen Victoria. Therefore, while security should remain tight at Buckingham Palace, it shouldn’t be increased to military style levels. The building is in fact more akin to a museum and should be treated accordingly. Just like in the United States, the Museum of Natural History has security, but it’s not on the level of Fort Knox.

In these days of increased terror threats, with the United States and England being the two biggest supporters of the war on terror, perhaps it is time to reprioritize what is worth protecting and what is just nice decoration.