A royal expert has claimed that the Duke of York behaves as though the public purse should continue to support him, despite widespread opposition. Recent polling indicates that 80% of people in the UK believe Prince Andrew should relinquish Royal Lodge, the Grade II listed residence he secured on a 75-year lease in 2003 for £1 million. Under the agreement, he can legally remain there provided he continues to fund its upkeep and renovation.
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The Prince has returned to the spotlight due to a series of controversies, including his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, claims of sexual assault made by the late Virginia Giuffre — which he has consistently denied — and other scandals. These issues ultimately led to Andrew stepping back from public life and relinquishing the use of his royal titles and patronages following a brief conversation with King Charles, although he still technically retains them.
Renewed attention has followed the release of a biography focusing on Andrew and his former wife, Sarah Ferguson. The Rise and Fall of the House of York, written by Andrew Lownie, alleges that the Duke demonstrated a sense of entitlement while serving as the UK’s trade envoy, preferring luxury hotels to embassies and driving up expenses paid by the taxpayer.
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Lownie claims that Andrew “absolutely pushed the government to cover expenses” and that departments felt unable to challenge him due to his royal status. Figures show that around £4 million in public funds were spent on his flights and hotel stays during his decade in the role, raising further questions about accountability and oversight.
