The Prince of Wales has held 36 private meetings with Cabinet ministers since the last General Election, it has been revealed.

Charles has met Prime Minister David Cameron seven times during the period, and he has had talks with Labour leader Ed Miliband on three occasions.

Clarence House said the Prince had a duty to communicate privately with the Government on any matter he chooses.

Since May 2010, when the Coalition Government came into power, Charles has also met Education Secretary Michael Gove, Business Secretary Vince Cable and Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith.

The Prince is known for his strong views on green issues and rural affairs but is meant to be politically neutral as heir to the throne.

Last month, the Attorney General's decision to block public disclosure of letters Charles wrote to Government ministers was upheld by three High Court judges following a battle by the Guardian newspaper.