In a revelation that has sent ripples through royal circles, King Charles conducted a secret meeting at Windsor Castle with Michael Fawcett, his former right-hand man who resigned amidst the damaging cash-for-honours controversy.
The clandestine encounter, which took place away from public scrutiny, marks the first known contact between the monarch and his former trusted aide since Fawcett's dramatic departure from royal duties.
The Fall from Grace
Michael Fawcett, once described as Charles's "indispensable" private secretary, stepped down from his position after allegations emerged that he offered to help secure a knighthood and British citizenship for a wealthy Saudi donor in exchange for charitable contributions.
The scandal prompted a Metropolitan Police investigation and raised serious questions about the honours system's integrity, creating one of the most challenging periods of Charles's early reign.
A Private Reunion Behind Castle Walls
Sources close to the palace reveal the meeting was conducted with utmost discretion within the historic walls of Windsor Castle. The nature of their discussion remains confidential, though insiders suggest it may signal a complex relationship between the sovereign and his former confidant.
Fawcett's proximity to the King had been such that he was famously credited with knowing Charles's preferences better than anyone else, having served him for over four decades since starting as a junior footman.
Scandal's Lasting Impact
The cash-for-honours affair continues to cast a long shadow over royal operations, prompting significant changes in how the monarchy handles donations and honours recommendations.
Royal commentators note that while the private meeting doesn't indicate Fawcett's return to formal duties, it demonstrates the complicated personal bonds that often exist behind the scenes of the institution.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson declined to comment on private meetings involving the King, maintaining the royal household's tradition of discretion regarding the monarch's personal engagements.
