GB News was interrupted for a bombshell alert concerning Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, one month after it was revealed he had been subletting properties on his Windsor estate for personal income. The former Duke of York, 66, sublet three cottages on the grounds and received the rental income.
Parliament Launches Probe into Royal Property Values
GB News royal correspondent Cameron Walker shared further details, confirming that Parliament has launched a probe into the value of royal properties. MPs are now questioning how much money Andrew earned from the sublet properties. Walker stated: "This all came about because of the disgrace that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor went through. It was revealed that three properties were being sublet by Andrew so that he could earn an income. MPs questioned that, to the point where this public accounts hearing committee took place yesterday, summoning Crown Estate officials to come and answer questions."
Crown Estate Defends Lease Arrangement
Walker explained that the Crown Estate confirmed the lease arrangement began in 2003. Andrew paid £1 million for the lease and an additional £7.5 million to renovate the property, which the Crown Estate otherwise would have had to cover. As part of the agreement, he was allowed to sublet the three properties. "It was all done within the rules and he was allowed to earn an income from that," Walker said. "The Crown Estate said that was good value for money in terms of the arrangement that was done because they didn't need to pay for the refurbishment costs."
MPs Demand Financial Disclosure
When MPs asked the Crown Estate how much Andrew earned from the sublets, they received no answer. However, Buckingham Palace has indicated it would release the figure if MPs formally request the information. Walker highlighted public concerns: "There's a lot of questions up in the air. An ordinary person would think how is a member of the Royal Family, who's getting peppercorn rent because he happens to be the son of Queen Elizabeth II, how is he then allowed to sublet three properties that he doesn't own and earn an income from that?"
If the figure is released, it is likely to generate further negative publicity for Andrew. It was also previously reported that Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have had their rent paid by King Charles, despite being non-working royals. Walker explained that because their properties are within Kensington Palace and St James' Palace, security clearance is required to rent them. He added: "Would you rather it was minimal rent or the property was left empty? That's why the Crown Estate is saying it's good value for taxpayers."
