Prince Andrew has a “toxic” brand, a royal commentator has claimed whilst addressing the ongoing speculation about the Duke of York’s residency at the Royal Lodge in Windsor.
The royal expert has also described the year 2024 as a “traumatic time” for King Charles, who has been diagnosed with cancer, and the Royal Family. It comes as the security team for Andrew’s Royal Lodge has been reportedly cut by the King and steps to reduce Andrew’s financial support are said to have been taken.
Speculating on The Duke of York’s brand, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told GB News: “The Yorks may be a toxic brand but they are a very close-knit one.”
He added: “Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie and their families. I mean, they are tremendously supportive.”
Prince Andrew’s residence at Royal Lodge, a £30million mansion in Windsor Great Park, has been at the centre of a dispute with his brother, King Charles.
Charles had reportedly wanted the Yorks to relocate to Frogmore Cottage, the former residence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
But the royal expert emphasised reports of Andrew’s potential eviction may be “smoke and mirrors”.
Sarah Ferguson previously defended Andrew on ITV, telling viewers: “Don’t believe everything you read”.
ITV host Holly had said: “The past few years, the Royal Family have been through tricky times. There has been a lot of spotlight on Prince Andrew and you have stood by him through thick and thin.”
Sarah added: “Walk forward as a unit and remain steadfast to that. Remember I’ve been through difficult times and he’s always stood by me. You can’t have it both ways.”
Royal Lodge boasts 30 rooms and 21 secluded areas as well as a huge garden, and there is also a huge gothic drawing room located in the heart of the property. There is a grand saloon with sage green panelling, soaring ceilings, oil painting depicting the surrounding park, and a huge Persian carpet.
Ever since the Duke of York quit as a working royal in light of his disastrous Newsnight interview in 2019, he has been able to live at the Windsor mansion. But the brothers are currently embroiled in a row over Royal Lodge, from which Charles reportedly wants to evict Andrew, who has a 75-year lease to the property and is desperately trying to hold onto it.
Royal commentator Robert Hardman alleged the monarch instructed his Keeper of the Privy Purse to sever Andrew’s annual personal allowance, which he had used to fund his living expenses and security.
According to The Times, Prince Andrew has convinced Palace authorities that he is able to cover the costs himself, in the hope that this will be enough to allow him to stay.
A source previously said: “If Andrew can pay for his own upkeep with legitimate means, then it is not an issue.
“But the King’s patience has run out when it comes to funding his brother’s lifestyle in a way that does not fit his status.”
