It’s official that the annual salary of Prince Andrew, Duke of York, known for his controversies related to the late Jeffrey Epstein, will be cut. This measure comes after the prince has been excluded from any representative role of the British monarchy in recent years. The confirmation comes from Robert Hardman, an expert court biographer, who has anticipated some details in an upcoming book, published in advance by the Daily Mail.
According to the information provided, King Charles III has taken a decisive decision in the confrontation with Andrew, ordering the court treasurer to stop paying about a million pounds intended for his younger brother. This sum covered his personal expenses and those of the royal residence where he lives. In addition, it is planned to stop paying security for the duke. This choice demonstrates the sovereign’s determination, especially in a period in which savings are being imposed on the expenses of the monarchy.
Relations between Charles and the 64-year-old Duke of York are described as tense and at an all-time low. It is rumoured that Andrew had bet on the king’s possible retreat, but Charles seems determined not to give in. The monarch’s aim is to push his brother to leave Royal Lodge, an imposing residence within Windsor Castle. This property has 30 rooms and is in need of renovation and is considered too expensive for the royal finances. Charles has long been trying to force Andrew to take on the maintenance costs, a burden that is unsustainable for him, especially without the allowance.
The king is therefore hoping to persuade Andrew to move into Frogmore Cottage, a smaller home that Queen Elizabeth had given to Harry and Meghan for their wedding. However, this property was taken away from them after their break with the royal family and their departure to the United States in 2020. It remains to be seen whether this offer remains valid and whether Andrew will be willing to accept it. The current situation marks a decisive phase for the royal family and its most controversial members.