SCOTTISH Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie has said recent revelations about the royal family underline the need to abolish the monarchy.

Harvie reiterated his party’s opposition to the monarchy yesterday, saying an independent Scotland should have an elected head of state.

The royal family has been rocked by allegations of racism from the Earl and Countess of Dumbarton, revealed publicly in an interview with Oprah Winfrey.

In a rare move during an official visit on Thursday, Prince William briefly spoke to reporters to say he had not yet talked to his brother.

He added: “We’re very much not a racist family.”

In a statement, Harvie said: “The revelations from the last few days, and other recent scandals, raise serious questions about the attitudes and values of the royal family and those around them.

“They also serve as a reminder that the monarchy itself is an outdated, discredited and totally undemocratic institution.”

He continued: “As we look to the future that Scotland can have as a fairer, greener and independent country, it is clear that asking the people to choose a modern, democratically accountable head of state would be the best step forward.

“The idea that any family has the right to such status based on hereditary titles and unearned wealth would hold Scotland back, and it’s not one that the Scottish Greens will ever support.

“Their shooting and hunting estates can be put to better use serving the local communities and creating more jobs.”