In a dramatic move that signals King Charles III's determination to modernise the monarchy, the Duke of York has been permanently barred from using his Buckingham Palace office, The Independent can reveal.
The decision represents a significant downgrading of Prince Andrew's status within the Royal Family and effectively severs his last remaining formal tie to the palace where he once maintained a prominent presence.
The Office Closure: A Symbolic Break
Sources close to the palace confirm that Andrew's office space within the historic building has been completely shut down. This action follows his removal from royal duties in 2019 after his disastrous Newsnight interview regarding his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The closure means the Duke no longer has any official base within the royal household, though he retains his residence at the Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park.
Financial and Legal Fallout
The palace's decision comes amid ongoing financial pressures facing the Royal Family. Maintaining Andrew's office represented a significant expense that the King has deemed unnecessary for someone no longer performing public duties.
This move follows Andrew's multi-million pound settlement with Virginia Giuffre in February 2022, who had accused him of sexual assault - allegations the Duke has consistently denied. The settlement, believed to be around £12 million, was reportedly funded through a combination of the Queen's private funds and Andrew's own savings.
A New Royal Era Under Charles
Royal commentators see this as part of King Charles's broader strategy to create a "slimmed-down" monarchy focused on core working royals. The King appears determined to distance the institution from controversies that could damage its reputation.
"This sends a clear message that there's no way back for Andrew in terms of royal duties," noted one palace insider. "The King is drawing a line under the Epstein scandal era."
Family Dynamics and Future Prospects
Despite his formal exclusion from palace affairs, Andrew remains close to other family members. He attended recent family gatherings including Christmas at Sandringham and appears to maintain a relationship with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, who continues to live with him at Royal Lodge.
However, his complete removal from Buckingham Palace office space underscores his diminished standing within the institution he was born into. Royal experts suggest this marks the final chapter in Andrew's fall from grace, transforming him from a senior working royal to a private citizen in all but name.
