It is not often that the pomp and circumstance surrounding the royal household is tampered with to save cash.

Members of the royal staff, however, will be disappointed to hear the Queen has cancelled their Christmas bash this year.

Buckingham Palace told the Financial Times that the royal household was “acutely aware of the difficult economic circumstances facing the country” and had therefore decided it was “appropriate to show restraint” by cancelling the party.

It has also been reported the move will affect 600 employees, who had been expecting to bring along a guest to the celebration in December.

Is this a bit rich coming from a woman who has more than one birthday celebration a year?

Should Christmas parties be cut to save costs? Tell us on the Employee Benefits Forum