Well, Nigel, I've been a member of my trade union for fifty years. In my union, and in all others (with extremely limited exceptions), leaders (presidents, general secretaries, members of the executive, etc.) are elected, typically via postal votes of union members. In contrast, I don't recall being asked to vote for any member of the royal family nor for any of their extensive entourage, even though I have to contribute to their upkeep. Just thought I'd mention it.