Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, despite being stripped of his royal titles, is reportedly still in line for a royal ceremonial funeral when the time comes, according to reports.
The former prince, who is King Charles' brother, was demoted to the status of an ordinary citizen last year after his titles were revoked following scandals linked to his past friendship with the late convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
While Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing and allegations related to the Epstein scandal, he nonetheless experienced a significant royal downfall. This is because, in addition to losing his royal titles, he also lost his Royal Lodge residence in Windsor.
Royal funeral plans
The former duke, aged 66, now resides on a farmhouse on King Charles' private Sandringham Estate. Despite these alterations to his royal standing, it has been revealed that Andrew is reportedly still slated for a royal ceremonial funeral.
The Mail on Sunday claims that senior Whitehall sources have informed them that the former Duke of York remains on a confidential government list of royals who will receive high-profile funerals, reports the Express. Details of the arrangements for his future funeral, which is not anticipated anytime soon, remain undisclosed.
However, given that he is earmarked for a royal ceremonial funeral under the current plans, it's likely that a service would take place at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle, where Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip's funerals were held.
Outrage over the news
It's likely that the late Queen's son would be laid to rest at the Royal Burial Ground at Frogmore, where numerous other royals are interred, including King Edward VIII.
The Daily Mail has reported that there's already been outrage over the news that Andrew could receive a royal funeral. One person particularly displeased with the news is US lawyer Gloria Allred, who has represented 27 of Epstein's victims.
She stated: "Andrew has brought disgrace upon the Royal Family and the UK as a result of his involvement with Jeffrey Epstein.."Under these circumstances, the question arises as to why this man should be afforded the honour of a royal funeral. What kind of message would such a ceremony send to Epstein's victims? Additionally, why should UK taxpayers bear the burden of paying his expenses either in life or after his death?"
Norman Baker, a former government minister and expert on royal finances, also told The Daily Mail: "This must be an oversight. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor is a commoner and should in no way be getting any sort of royal funeral."
