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July 2009
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Swedish Politician Calls Palace Gift “a Scandal”

Lars Ohly, the leader of Sweden’s Left Party, is crying foul over the government giving Crown Princess Victoria and fiance, Daniel Westling Haga Palace as their home once they are married next year. Haga Palace

“I think it is a scandal that they have been offered the palace entirely free. It is owned by the Swedish state, and we got it as a gift,” Ohly told Svenska Dagbladet newspaper.

The Swedish government acquired ownership of the palace in 1966, and have been using it to house their guests. Ohly believes the royal couple should find their own place like ordinary people.

“That is something almost everyone else has to do. And moreover, they have better economic prerequisites than most people,” he said.

Ohly also voiced concerned over visitors to Haga Palace’s park would not be allowed once Victoria and Daniel move in. Palace officials say not to worry, pointing out that while people won’t walk right up the palace, they still would have access to the nearby Brunnsviken waterfront.

The Swedish government announced back in April plans to give the Crown Princess and her husband-to-be Haga Palace as a wedding gift. It was once the home to King Carl XVI Gustaf when he was a little boy, along with his four older sisters.

Crown Princess Victoria Turns 32

The future Queen of Sweden celebrated her 32nd birthday, or Victoria Day, Tuesday, at Solliden Palace on Oeland Island. Just like the previous years, Crown Princess Victoria went out to the crowds to collect flowers, Swedish flags and other birthday gifts, while her parents stayed back and watched. CP Victoria & Daniel

But this year something was different. Victoria’s fiance, Daniel Westling, was present for the event for the first time. Of course, one would expect for him to be in attendance. But since his kidney transplant in late May, it was a wonder if Daniel would be able to be there for his fiancee’s birthday celebrations, since he is still in recovery.

But in attendance he was, and Daniel and Victoria were more than happy to show a bit of affection as they put their arms around, and even hugged each other at one point.

The large crowds gathered for the Crown Princess’ birthday sang, “Yes, She May Live” for Victoria prior to giving her their gifts. Daniel stayed behind and chatted with King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia.

Tonight, there would a small concert for the royal birthday girl’s honor. The entire royal family would be there, and there are two extra seats – one for the winner of a scholarship Victoria is a patron of, and the second for Daniel!

It is not known if Victoria Day celebrations would continue next year when Daniel and Victoria marry.