In a dramatic parliamentary move, senior Conservative MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown has demanded the government reveal whether public funds were used in Prince Andrew's confidential settlement with Virginia Giuffre.
The Cotswolds MP submitted a written question to Cabinet Office minister Alex Burghart, pressing for transparency about the "precise role" ministers played in the multi-million pound agreement that ended the sexual assault lawsuit against the Duke of York.
Parliamentary Pressure Mounts
Sir Geoffrey, who serves as Second Deputy Chairman of Ways and Means, directly challenged the government to disclose "what discussions ministers have had with the royal household" regarding the settlement. His intervention marks the most significant parliamentary scrutiny of the controversial deal to date.
The case stems from allegations by Ms Giuffre that she was trafficked by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein to have sex with Prince Andrew when she was 17 - claims the Duke has consistently denied.
Secret Settlement Raises Questions
Despite the resolution of the civil case in February 2022, the exact terms remain shrouded in secrecy. Neither Buckingham Palace nor Prince Andrew have disclosed the settlement amount or confirmed where the funds originated.
Sir Geoffrey's questioning reflects growing concerns about potential taxpayer involvement in resolving royal legal disputes. The MP specifically asked whether ministers had exercised their authority to approve any aspect of the financial arrangement.
Government's Evasive Response
In a carefully worded reply, Mr Burghart declined to provide substantive answers, stating it would be "inappropriate to comment on such matters." The minister's avoidance of the specific financial questions has fueled speculation about what the government may be concealing.
The lack of transparency surrounding the settlement continues to generate controversy, particularly as Prince Andrew was stripped of his military affiliations and royal patronages following the lawsuit's filing.
Ongoing Royal Fallout
Despite settling the case, Prince Andrew remains removed from public duties and is no longer known as His Royal Highness in an official capacity. The Queen's second son has seen his public standing irreparably damaged by the association with Epstein and the subsequent legal battle.
Sir Geoffrey's parliamentary intervention ensures the matter remains firmly in the political spotlight, increasing pressure on both the government and monarchy to address lingering questions about the settlement's funding and ministerial involvement.
