The fate of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's comeback to the Royal Family is believed to be revealed at a major upcoming event. The disgraced former prince recently won a major court victory regarding searches of his properties and was awarded £302,000 in compensation following his eviction from Royal Lodge. It is now rumoured that the 66-year-old is plotting a dramatic return to the Firm, and an insider has revealed the real test is yet to come.
King Charles' Softened Attitude
It's reported that King Charles' attitude towards his brother has softened in recent months, including allowing him more freedom to ride in certain areas of the monarch's estate. It has given Andrew increased belief that he may be accepted back into the family.
As reported by the Daily Mail, the fate of his comeback is likely to come when the Royal Family gather at the Sandringham Estate, in Norfolk, this Christmas. The family have traditionally spent Christmas at the estate since 1988, when the late Queen Elizabeth II moved the gathering due to refurbishment work at Windsor Castle.
Courtiers' Jitters
A royal insider said: "The true extent as to how far he is still being frozen out by his own family should become clear at Christmas where the optics of an isolated Andrew whilst the rest of the family party nearby is causing courtiers some jitters."
It comes after the King has given his brother more freedom in recent months, allowing him to come and go from the estate as he pleases. He is allowed to ride away from the eyes of the public on designated areas of Sandringham.
Legal Victory and Support
Andrew has also received visits from his other siblings, Edward and Anne, in recent months. There are both reportedly concerned by his harsh treatment and lack of emotional support.
This week, a London High Court judge ruled that the search warrants used by Thames Valley Police to raid his properties were unlawful. Although this does not end the investigation, the quashing of the warrants is a victory for Andrew as some of the evidence obtained by detectives may not be able to be used against him.
Andrew, who was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office in February, now hopes to capitalise on the High Court victory. The source added: "He would love to go further as he seeks to rehabilitate himself."
Marcus Johnstone of PCD Solicitors, which specialises in criminal defence, told the Daily Mail: "As things stand, what the force has now opened itself up to is the possibility of further legal action and the collapse of the case against Mr Mountbatten-Windsor entirely."
