Pressure is growing for Prince Andrew to appear before Members of Parliament (MPs). There is an increasing demand for the disgraced royal to provide testimony to a select committee regarding the use of public funds. Reports suggest that the 65-year-old is considering leaving his 30-room Royal Lodge residence voluntarily due to controversy surrounding the nominal rent he currently pays for the property in Windsor.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has urged the Public Accounts Committee to initiate an investigation into potential taxpayer subsidies for Andrew’s accommodations. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, stating that Parliament has a responsibility to oversee such matters. Sir Ed proposed a select committee inquiry to examine how the Crown Estate has managed its support for Andrew, calling for officials from the Crown Estate and Prince Andrew to testify.
The focus of the inquiry revolves around the Royal Lodge and whether public funds have been used to support the Prince’s living arrangements. Sir Ed has reached out to the chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, who plans to seek more information on the lease agreements for the Royal Lodge.
Select committees, which gather evidence and present their findings to Parliament, play a crucial role in scrutinizing public spending and holding authorities accountable. Sir Ed emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and, if necessary, a parliamentary debate to address the concerns raised by taxpayers.
Regarding discussions with the King’s aides, it is reported that Prince Andrew is hesitant to vacate his long-standing residence due to unresolved issues such as the location of his new home and compensation for renovation expenses at the lodge. Negotiations with the Palace include requests for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s former residence, Frogmore Cottage, and plans for Sarah Ferguson, Andrew’s ex-wife, to move into nearby Adelaide Cottage once Prince William and Kate Middleton relocate.
When asked about the support provided for the Prince’s ex-wife, Sir Ed deferred the decision to others, highlighting the need for careful consideration of taxpayer expectations in such matters.