Claims that Prince Andrew will receive an elaborate royal funeral have been dismissed by a royal commentator, who suggests his inclusion on a confidential list is merely an oversight. The former Duke of York, who has faced accusations related to Jeffrey Epstein, is reportedly set for a ceremonial farewell under government 'bridge' plans.
Report Sparks Outrage
A Mail on Sunday report indicated Andrew remains on a list of royals entitled to high-profile funerals, comparable to Princess Margaret's in 2002. That occasion saw flags at half-mast, a six-day mourning period, and a cortege to Windsor with 30 royals at a private service.
Royal expert Tom Sykes, writing on his Royalist Substack, notes Andrew was "only officially kicked out of the royal family in October last year, and he doesn't appear to be at death's door." He expects briefings to confirm it's "actually just an oversight, and that it's simply the case that nobody has got around to changing the plans yet."
Victims' Lawyer and MP Speak Out
Gloria Allred, a lawyer representing 27 of Epstein's victims, 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?"
Tory shadow Home Office minister Alicia Kearns said: "There are no circumstances under which Andrew should be afforded a royal funeral. He should live out his days far from public life, and the police and CPS should ensure their investigations into him are robust and don't drag on. All such plans should be revoked immediately."
Andrew has consistently denied allegations of sexual misconduct, and his friendship with Epstein has been widely criticized.
