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 the King to move out of Royal Lodge in Windsor to save money, but he has refused to leave the 19th-century property with 30 rooms, a pool, and 90 acres of land.
Recent developments reveal that the security team, funded by Charles, will not be required from the autumn, sparking speculation that the duke may be forced to relocate. This move is the latest development in what has been dubbed the ‘siege of Royal Lodge.’
Former BBC royal reporter Michael Cole described the King’s decision to remove Andrew’s security team as a ‘radical move’ that will leave the duke ‘very, very unhappy.’ Charles has been trying to persuade Andrew to move to Frogmore Cottage, previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan, but legal complications arise due to Andrew’s long-term lease at Royal Lodge.
The King and Queen Camilla are set to host the extended Royal Family at the Balmoral estate in Scotland, where Andrew and his daughters may join them. This could lead to an awkward encounter as Andrew stepped back from royal duties in 2020 over his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Charles had been funding his brother’s security guards after armed police were withdrawn, but he is now unwilling to pay indefinitely for round-the-clock protection. With mounting upkeep costs for Royal Lodge and no visible income source for Andrew, Charles believes his brother needs to downsize.
Despite offers of financial assistance from Fergie, Andrew’s ex-wife, the future of Royal Lodge remains uncertain. Andrew’s finances are under scrutiny, especially after settling a lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre and selling a Swiss chalet to cover debts. The Royal Household is reportedly looking for a new tenant for Royal Lodge if Andrew moves out.
Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the situation.