Parliament's spending watchdog has formally questioned whether Prince Andrew's housing arrangements at Royal Lodge represent value for money. The Public Accounts Committee wrote to the Treasury and Crown Estate on Wednesday, raising concerns about lease terms that allow the Duke of York to live in the 30-room Windsor mansion for what has been described as a "peppercorn rent" since 2003.
Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, the committee chairman, cited Prince Andrew's changed status as justification for the inquiry. "There is considerable and understandable public interest in the spending of public money in relation to Prince Andrew, which in part stems from the fact that he is no longer a working royal and from serious and disturbing allegations made against him," he wrote in the letter.
Committee Demands Answers
The MPs are demanding explanations by November 28 for why the current arrangement remains appropriate. "We are therefore concerned as to whether the lease arrangements for Royal Lodge are, in light of recent developments and changes in the responsibilities of Prince Andrew, achieving the best value for money," Clifton-Brown stated.
The committee also wants assurance that maintenance terms are being enforced properly. "It is also a matter of concern to the committee that the terms of the lease, including those relating to maintenance, are being effectively enforced to maintain the value and character of this nationally important royal residence," the letter continued.
Renewed Scrutiny
The inquiry comes amid fresh controversy surrounding Prince Andrew's past associations with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The prince gave up his titles earlier this month ahead of the publication of Virginia Giuffre's posthumous memoirs, though he retains the title of Prince.
Reports suggest Prince Andrew is now in discussions with King Charles's representatives about potentially leaving Royal Lodge voluntarily. The committee has indicated it will consider further action once it receives responses from the Crown Estate and Treasury.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
