Keir Starmer has expressed support for a call to investigate Prince Andrew’s occupancy of a 30-room mansion in Windsor without paying rent.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for thorough examination, following suggestions for a parliamentary inquiry that could involve the Prince providing testimony.
Concerns have been raised regarding the agreement allowing Andrew to reside at Royal Lodge, a historic Georgian property in Windsor Great Park. Initially purchasing a 75-year lease for £1 million, he now pays a nominal rent.
This scrutiny intensified after allegations emerged in a posthumous memoir by Virginia Giuffre linking Andrew to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Despite denying the accusations, the Prince announced he would cease using his royal titles.
During a session of PMQs, Liberal Democrats leader Sir Ed Davey urged for a close review of the Crown Estate to safeguard taxpayers’ interests, pushing for a select committee inquiry to summon all relevant parties for evidence, including the current occupant.
In response, Mr. Starmer stressed the importance of scrutinizing all Crown properties to ensure transparency and expressed his backing for such measures.
Documentation revealed that Prince Andrew secured a 75-year lease on Royal Lodge in 2003, paying £1 million upfront with an annual rent of a symbolic peppercorn, if requested.
Additionally, he contributed £7.5 million towards refurbishments in 2005, as reported by the National Audit Office. The lease agreement includes a provision entitling Andrew to £558,000 from the Crown Estate if he relinquishes the lease.
Critics have raised concerns about potential losses to taxpayers, as Crown Estate profits are directed to the Treasury. Former Public Accounts Committee chair Baroness Hodge called for a thorough audit of royal accounts by the Treasury to ensure accountability.
Downing Street supported calls for Prince Andrew to cooperate with law enforcement regarding any information related to Epstein. A No 10 spokesperson emphasized the importance of sharing relevant details in criminal investigations.
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