The transport secretary, Mark Harper, said he hoped people would swear allegiance to King Charles on the day of his coronation after doubts were raised about the idea of asking the public to join the proposed oath.

Speaking on Sky’s Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme, Harper said he would be swearing the oath, to be known as a 'homage of the people' and pointed out that MPs already 'pledge allegiance to his majesty' on taking their seats.

On Sunday, those watching the coronation on television, online and in parks and pubs will be encouraged to swear aloud their allegiance to the monarch. Republicans have described the idea as 'an offensive and tone-deaf gesture that holds the people in contempt'.