Prince Andrew is reportedly in advanced discussions with King Charles’s senior aides about vacating the Royal Lodge, a 30-room mansion in Windsor Great Park. The talks come after revelations that the prince pays a symbolic “peppercorn” rent under a lease acquired for £1 million in 2003, with £7.5 million in refurbishment costs. The Public Accounts Committee has confirmed it is writing to the Crown Estate and the Treasury over the arrangement.
Buckingham Palace is increasing pressure on Andrew to voluntarily give up the residence, though he cannot be evicted due to a “cast iron” lease until 2078. Reports indicate daily negotiations, with a growing sense of inevitability that he will move out. Royal sources note a “renewed determination” to force his departure, especially after the posthumous publication of Virginia Giuffre’s memoirs, which repeated allegations of sexual assault against Andrew—claims he vehemently denies.
King Charles has reportedly tried for some time to persuade his brother to leave. If forced out, Andrew would be entitled to £558,000 under the lease terms. However, questions remain about where he and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, would go, as the King is understood to have withdrawn financial support last year. Andrew’s income source is unclear.
Downing Street stated on Thursday that MPs would not be given time to discuss Andrew’s situation, as the royal family wishes Parliament to focus on “important issues.” The controversy intensified after Andrew announced last week he would relinquish his titles and honours, including Duke of York, though they remain extant but inactive. Calls for their full removal continue, which would require legislation.
