Pressure is growing for Prince Andrew to appear before Members of Parliament (MPs). Calls are increasing for the disgraced royal to provide testimony to a select committee regarding the use of taxpayer funds. The 65-year-old is reportedly considering leaving his 30-room Royal Lodge residence voluntarily amid controversy over the nominal rent he currently pays for the property in Windsor.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has urged the Public Accounts Committee to launch an investigation into whether public funds have been used to support Andrew’s accommodations. Speaking on the BBC Radio 4 Today Programme, Sir Ed stated that Prince Andrew’s actions have compromised his position and forfeited any entitlement to special treatment at the expense of taxpayers. He emphasized the need for transparency by suggesting a select committee inquiry into the management of support provided by the Crown Estate, with officials from the estate and Prince Andrew expected to provide evidence.
Sir Ed has written to the chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Conservative MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, who previously expressed intentions to seek more details on the lease arrangements for the Royal Lodge from the Crown Estate and the government.
Select committees, bipartisan groups tasked with gathering evidence and reporting findings to Parliament, play a crucial role in ensuring accountability. Sir Ed emphasized the importance of a potential government-led debate if a committee inquiry does not materialize, highlighting the need for public representatives to discuss matters concerning taxpayers.
Regarding the royal family’s protection, Sir Ed acknowledged the challenging situation faced by the King due to the overshadowing attention on Prince Andrew’s controversies. He stressed the significance of accountability and transparency in potentially dispelling any assumptions of special treatment for Andrew.
While discussions continue with the King’s aides, Prince Andrew is reportedly hesitant to relinquish his long-standing residence, with negotiations focusing on the location of a new home and compensation for lodge renovations. In exit talks with the Palace, Andrew has purportedly expressed interest in moving to Frogmore Cottage, previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, while his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson plans to reside in Adelaide Cottage after Prince William and Kate Middleton vacate next month.
When questioned about the provision for the Prince’s ex-wife, Sir Ed deferred the decision to others, noting that taxpayer expectations may differ.