Historic Royal Palaces is established by Royal Charter and is the charity that looks after the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, the Banqueting House, Kensington Palace and Kew Palace. Although the palaces are owned by The Queen on behalf of the nation, Historic Palaces receives no funding from the Government or the Crown and depends on the support of its visitors, members, donors, volunteers and sponsors. 
 
Trustees are not remunerated but reasonable expenses are paid.

This reappointment has been made in accordance with the Code of Practice of the Commissioner for Public Appointments.  All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity (if any declared) to be made public. No political activity has been declared by Mr Reading.