Cost cutting in Charles’ trip to Japan

London, Oct. 7: In an attempt to avoid appearing extravagant, the size of Prince Charles’ entou-rage, visiting Japan, will be reduced in view of ongoing global financial crisis, the prince’s office said.

The size of his entourage will be reduced from the normal figure of around 21 staff to approximately 15 personnel, it said.

Prince Charles and his wife Camilla will be on a four-day visit to Japan from October 27. A spokeswoman told Kyodo News that the prince, who is heir to the British throne, is very much "aware of the economic situation" and has reduced the number of staff he will take to Japan.

She did not disclose the actual cost of the trip, which is the result of a request by the British government and will also see the prince visit to Brunei and Indonesia. The British media have in the past criticised the prince for his spending on travel and lifestyle, so his staff are keen to avoid any accusations of excess while the economy at home is suffering.

The British government is still keen for the visit to go ahead given the benefits that normally accrue to the country from high-profile royal trips. He last visited Japan in 1990. His second wife, the duchess of Cornwall, has never been on an official trip to the region before.

Their visit to Japan will celebrate the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and will focus on environmental sustainability, including new technologies, education and heritage.

During their stay, the couple will meet the Japanese royal family as well as Prime Minister Taro Aso. —Kyodo