Prince William has been accused of rehashing empty reform promises while expanding royal secrecy.

Following an interview for an Apple TV programme, campaigners have accused the royal of shameless spin and dishonesty.

Speaking for Republic, Graham Smith said today:

"The royals have been promising reform for decades. It's all empty promises, an attempt to deflect from rising criticism and falling support."

"The only thing William wants to slim down is his tax bill. The cost of the monarchy continues to rise, despite a fall in the number of front-line royals."

"William and his family cost the country more than half a billion pounds a year. This is blatant abuse of public money and public office."

"He has refused to disclose his taxes, he demands greater secrecy under the guise of privacy, he continues to take a publicly funded personal income of more than £20m a year from the Duchy of Cornwall."

"William is not a man interested in reform, but in protecting his own privilege. His soft-soap media appearances need to be met with hard-nosed journalism and exposure."