I did break this golden rule when Prince Charles broke his arm playing polo and there was a media frenzy outside Cirencester Cottage Hospital. Charles thanked me afterwards for being upfront.
How did you manage challenging times?
I don’t do stress. Why should I make myself ill because two people are being incredibly stupid? When Andrew Morton’s book on Diana came out in 1992, we had no idea what was in it. I had to go to Charing Cross station to pick up the first edition of the paper, and I was gobsmacked.
Diana called me at 5am asking what she should do, and I told her it couldn’t be undone now, but just to keep schtum, not answer her phone, and I would accompany her on her next engagement two days later to keep people at bay.
I also became acutely aware that everything in my private life was monitored so I could never step out of line, lest it caused any embarrassment. But I enjoyed my time at the Palace; there was always a buzz.
What’s the most difficult lesson you’ve learnt about money?
Through life we all make mistakes, but if you start dwelling on it, you go down the rabbit hole of worrying. If you’ve made a mistake, you’ve just got to live with it and eventually it just fades.
I wouldn’t change anything about what I’ve done because regrets are pointless. Discipline is vital. If you’ve got to do something and there’s nothing you can do to avoid it, go and enjoy it as best you can. Otherwise you’ll be miserable, and who wants that?
What do you like to spend your money on?
Well it’s not my colourful ties that I’m renowned for, that the late Queen always used to deride.
I get them from a lovely lady called Jane Ireland who has a stall at Covent Garden every Wednesday and Friday. She designs them to my specifications.
I also have a fondness for vintage cars. In 2017, I sold my everyday car, which was a tatty old Ford Fiesta and got a 1958 Sunbeam Rapier, it’s classically stylish and an eye-turner.
What’s your attitude towards money now?
I’m prudent and appreciate the value of money. I’m reasonably comfortable. I’m definitely more careful than I have been in the past, especially given we’re all living longer.
I exercise – but not at a gym; they’re money-making rackets. I go out on my bike every morning at 5.30am and I ride twice a week. It’s important to keep your brain and body active. I give talks throughout the year, especially on cruises, which allows me to travel to new places.
What charities do you support?
Charities are vital and do incredible work – I tend to support UK-based charities because I feel the money will get to the right place.
I give a monthly donation to the NSPCC because so much work needs to be done to protect children, and I like Cancer Research and the Royal British Legion because we’re living today because of those that fought for our freedom.
If you could change one thing about the financial system, what would it be?
Tax, whether it’s how much self-employed people pay and when, or inheritance tax, which affects everybody in different ways, not just the wealthy.
There you have two alternatives – don’t do anything and let your beneficiaries sort the mess out at great or shed your assets carefully while you’re alive, potentially leaving yourself short. It’s important for every parent to put their affairs in order so HMRC doesn’t unduly get more than their fair share.
Best financial advice for readers?
All very well to spend today, but think of your tomorrows.