Royal Christmas at Sandringham at risk following dispute

Unions have signalled that the Royal Family could face heating
shortages over the festive season as tanker drivers plan to strike,
raising concerns over fuel deliveries to the Sandringham
estate.

According to the Daily
Telegraph, approximately 400 drivers employed by Certas Energy,
a primary supplier to the estate, are expected to walk out in a
dispute over pay. The industrial action is scheduled to last 15
days, spanning from 22 December to 5 January. Unite, the union
representing the drivers, warned that the strike could leave King
Charles and Queen Camilla confronting a “cold Christmas.”

The disruption is not limited to the royal household. The union
noted that schools, military facilities, petrol stations, and Royal
Mail refuelling points may also be affected.

Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, said: “Certas drivers
do not expect to be treated like royalty, but they do expect a fair
pay increase from their employer.”

The union has criticised the company’s proposed 2 per cent pay
rise, calling it insufficient to meet members’ expectations.

Certas Energy, however, emphasised that it has put forward an
above-inflation pay offer and remains in negotiations with the
union to avert a strike. A spokesperson said: “We have measures in
place to mitigate any disruption to our customers, including
Sandringham, should industrial action proceed.”

The King and Queen are expected to arrive at Sandringham in the
next few days, joining joining close family members for festive
period. The Prince and Princess of Wales and their three children
are also understood to be spending Christmas at Anmer Hall –
located on the estate.

Palace sources suggested that the strike, while potentially
inconvenient, would not necessarily cause a crisis. The Sandringham
estate benefits from backup heating systems, including a biomass
boiler installed by the late Prince Philip, powered by woodchips
harvested from estate grounds.