Prince Charles' youth duty

May 15, 2006, 14:06 GMT

Britain's Prince Charles has spoken of his duty to help people in need.

During an interview to celebrate the 30th anniversary of his charity, The Prince's Trust, Charles spoke of his responsibility to Britain's youth.

He said: 'It would be criminally negligent of me to go around this country and not actually want to try and do something about what I find there. I think that's my duty to do so.'

The prince was inspired to set up the charity in 1976 because he was bullied at Gordonstoun boarding school.

He described his time there as a 'literal hell'.

The Prince's Trust helps disadvantaged young people to set up their own businesses, and supports their transition from childhood to adulthood.

Charles - who was speaking to former newsreader Sir Trevor McDonald - expressed hope that his sons William and Harry will become more involved in the charity.

He also praised his wife Camilla, for her encouragement.

The prince said: 'I'm very lucky, thank you very much, she is a great support.'

Charles was evidently disgusted by the current anti-Muslim tensions in London and said people should 'stop squabbling about religion'.

The heir to the throne said he felt he was in a difficult position because of his involvement in social policy.

He said: 'You're in a no-win situation, because if you do nothing, they're going to complain about that. And if you try and get stuck in and do something to help, they also complain.'

The interview will be broadcast on Britain's ITV channel tomorrow (16.06.05).

Copyright 2006 BANG Media International