King Charles has reportedly allowed Prince Andrew to continue hosting royal shooting parties, despite previously warning him to remain 'invisible' at public events. The Duke of York will keep his role organising the annual 'family day' at Windsor, typically held after the pheasant shooting season starts in November.
According to sources, the monarch's decision stems from a desire not to antagonise his younger brother behind closed doors, even as he seeks to distance the royals from Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson in public. Andrew was stripped of his HRH status and military accolades in January 2022 following his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Royal biographer Andrew Lownie told The Daily Beast: 'King Charles does not want to antagonise his younger brother entirely but he needs to recognise that the public want some answers about the Yorks’ connections with Jeffrey Epstein and how they have exploited their royal status for personal financial gain.'
Despite retaining his shooting privileges, Andrew is expected to take a further step back from the spotlight. The King has reportedly asked the couple to adopt an 'out of sight, out of mind' approach at future family occasions, using discreet entrances where possible. A source told The Sunday Times: 'You can't sack someone from being your brother. But this year, if the duke and duchess were both to be as honourable [as last year], it would be very much for the best.'
The decision is believed to have been supported by the Prince of Wales, who is reportedly frustrated by the Yorks' behaviour and concerned about the long-term reputational risk to the royal family.
