Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, is reportedly still set to receive a royal ceremonial funeral when the time comes, according to a report in The Mail on Sunday. Senior Whitehall sources have told the newspaper that the former prince remains on a secret government list of royals who will receive high-profile funerals.
Status Downgraded Last Year
The brother of King Charles was stripped of his royal titles last year following scandals surrounding his previous friendship with the late convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. While Andrew has always denied wrongdoing and accusations against him in the scandals, he suffered the ultimate royal downfall. As well as losing his royal titles, he also lost his Royal Lodge home in Windsor. The former duke, 66, now lives on a farmhouse on King Charles’ private Sandringham Estate.
Funeral Arrangements Under Existing Plans
Details of the arrangements for his future funeral, which is not expected anytime soon, are unknown. However, as he is set for a royal ceremonial funeral under the existing plans, it is likely that a service would be held at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle, where the funerals of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip were held. It is then likely that the late Queen’s son would be buried at the Royal Burial Ground at Frogmore, where many other royals are buried, including King Edward VIII.
Fury Over the News
The Daily Mail reports that there has already been fury over the news that Andrew could have a royal funeral. One person unhappy with the news is US lawyer Gloria Allred, who has represented 27 of Epstein's victims. She said: “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 in 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.”
