By Claire Duffin
King Charles is reportedly making his feelings known towards Prince Andrew by removing the security team guarding his brother’s £30 million home. The Duke of York is facing pressure from His Majesty to move out of Royal Lodge in Windsor to save money, but he has so far refused to leave the 19th-century property with 30 rooms, a pool, and 90 acres of land.
The security guards, funded by Charles, have been informed they will not be needed from the autumn, sparking speculation that the duke may be forced to relocate. This development is the latest twist in the ongoing saga at Royal Lodge.
Former BBC royal reporter Michael Cole described the move to remove Andrew’s security team as a “radical move” by the King that will leave Andrew “very, very unhappy.” Charles has been trying to persuade his younger brother to move to Frogmore Cottage, previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan, but legal obstacles make eviction difficult.
As the King prepares to host the extended Royal Family at Balmoral estate in Scotland, tensions may rise if Andrew and his daughters join. The 64-year-old prince stepped back from royal duties in 2020 due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Charles has been funding Andrew’s security guards after armed police were withdrawn, but he is unwilling to pay indefinitely for round-the-clock protection. With costly repairs needed at Royal Lodge and Andrew’s financial situation unclear, Charles believes his brother needs to downsize.
Should Andrew vacate Royal Lodge, the property may be rented out rather than housing other royals. Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the situation.