The former police protection officer who once guarded Prince Andrew has broken his silence with startling revelations about the royal's security arrangements and current safety fears.
Paul Page, who served as the Duke of York's personal protection officer for three years, has spoken out for the first time about his experiences protecting the controversial royal. His intervention comes amid ongoing concerns about Andrew's safety following the withdrawal of his Metropolitan Police protection.
Intimate Knowledge of Royal Security
During his tenure from 2003 to 2006, Page gained unprecedented access to the inner workings of royal security. He accompanied Andrew on numerous international trips and was responsible for the Duke's safety during both public engagements and private moments.
"I know exactly how he's protected, what his security detail looks like, and what vulnerabilities exist," Page revealed in an exclusive interview.
Current Safety Concerns
The ex-officer expressed serious concerns about Andrew's current security situation, particularly given the high-profile nature of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal and the ongoing public scrutiny surrounding the Duke.
"When you remove that level of protection from someone like Prince Andrew, you're creating significant vulnerabilities," Page warned. "I understand the public sentiment, but from a security professional's perspective, this creates genuine risks."
Behind the Scenes of Royal Protection
Page described the intricate planning involved in protecting a senior royal, revealing that security arrangements extended far beyond what the public ever sees.
"Every movement is planned meticulously," he explained. "From route planning to venue security assessments, there are multiple layers of protection that most people never notice."
The Human Side of Royal Security
The former officer also shed light on the personal relationship that develops between a protection officer and their principal, describing it as "unlike any other professional relationship."
"You spend more time with them than with your own family," Page revealed. "You're there for the good days and the bad, the public appearances and the private moments."
Ongoing Security Debate
Page's comments come amid continued debate about who should foot the bill for royal security. The taxpayer currently covers protection for working royals, but Andrew's status has been significantly reduced since stepping back from public duties.
The former officer's unique perspective provides rare insight into the complex world of royal protection and raises important questions about balancing security needs with public accountability.
