King Charles is reportedly considering severing all ties with Prince Andrew, who has refused to relocate to Harry and Meghan’s former residence.
The 75-year-old King is said to be pressuring his scandal-ridden brother to vacate the 30-room Royal Lodge in Windsor, having previously suggested he move into Frogmore Cottage.
This was once the home of Prince Harry and Meghan before their move to America, and they retained it until they were issued an eviction notice last year.
Now, it appears to be Andrew’s turn to vacate his Royal abode, with Charles allegedly warning him of severe repercussions if he remains.
The Duke of York, 64, is believed to have a lengthy lease on the Royal Lodge. However, as the King oversees all Royal household finances, he could potentially limit Andrew’s funding, making it difficult for him to cover the exorbitant annual maintenance costs of the Grade II-listed property.
Furthermore, King Charles currently foots the bill for Andrew’s £3million yearly security expenses.
Prince Andrew’s stubborn refusal to relocate has reportedly irked King Charles, with a Royal insider revealing to the Times: “The King’s kindness is not without limit and there is a very good option for Andrew to move into Frogmore Cottage, recently vacated by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, which also has the benefit of being within the Windsor Castle security cordon hence reducing the need for alternative round-the-clock security for Royal Lodge.”
The source further noted that Andrew is “taking longer than desirable” to “recognise the reality of the situation”.
Yet, Prince Andrew appears unyielding in his stance. An associate of the Duke told the newspaper that he’s likely to “dig in” if the stalemate persists, mentioning that he has already had a “stay of execution” due to Sarah Ferguson and the King’s recent health issues.
Royal Lodge, the former residence of the Queen Mother, is a 19th-century Grade II-listed estate featuring a swimming pool and sprawling across 90 acres. Prince Andrew, who shares the home with his former spouse Sarah Ferguson, secured a 75-year lease on the property in 2003.
However, early 2023 saw rumours emerge that King Charles was eager for his brother to vacate the premises in favour of Frogmore Cottage, following its refurbishment.
After ascending to the throne, the King is said to have slashed Andrew’s £250,000 yearly allowance that was previously provided by the late Queen Elizabeth. The Royal Lodge reportedly needs repair works costing around £2 million.
Buckingham Palace has been contacted for a statement by The Mirror.