Conservative backbenchers have launched a fresh parliamentary offensive demanding transparency over the controversial £3 million refurbishment of Frogmore Cottage, the Windsor residence previously occupied by Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson.
In a pointed written question to the Cabinet Office, senior Tory MP Sir Christopher Chope questioned whether the government had conducted any recent assessments regarding the "future use and ownership" of the property that once housed the Duke and Duchess of York.
Taxpayer-Funded Luxury Under Scrutiny
The inquiry comes amid growing scrutiny of the substantial public funds invested in the Grade II-listed cottage, which underwent extensive renovations before the couple moved in during 2020. The refurbishment costs, initially covered by the Sovereign Grant but later repaid by Prince Andrew, have long been a source of controversy.
Cabinet Office Minister Alex Burghart responded cautiously, stating that matters concerning royal residences "do not fall within the responsibilities of His Majesty's Government" and are instead handled directly by the Royal Household.
Musical Chairs with Royal Properties
The property drama intensified when Prince Andrew was reportedly asked to vacate Frogmore Cottage by King Charles in 2023, shortly after the monarch offered the residence to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following their departure from royal duties.
This latest parliamentary intervention signals ongoing concerns among MPs about the transparency and management of publicly-funded royal properties, particularly those linked to members of the Royal Family who have stepped back from official duties.
Sir Christopher, known for his meticulous scrutiny of public expenditure, has previously raised questions about the funding arrangements for royal residences, suggesting the issue remains a sore point for taxpayers watching the royal property portfolio.
