Prince Andrew's Rent-Free Royal Lodge Residency Sparks Taxpayer Scrutiny

Prince Andrew has lived rent-free under a "peppercorn rent" agreement at Royal Lodge, a 30-room mansion in Windsor Great Park, since 2003. His 75-year lease, signed with the late Queen Elizabeth II, required a £1 million upfront payment and £7.5 million in renovations, but only nominal annual rent thereafter, making it nearly impossible to evict him without breach of lease terms. Public and political pressure mounts for Andrew to relinquish the property amid ongoing controversies related to his past associations and accusations, though the Crown Estate would owe him around £558,000 if he left early. Parliamentary committees and public watchdogs have considered scrutinizing the arrangement due to its taxpayer implications, but the lease's legal robustness currently prevents action. Critics highlight the contrast between Andrew's privileged housing deal and typical renters who pay market rates, emphasizing the unique nature of his agreement and lifestyle. The debate continues as calls grow for Andrew to move into private life, with some urging formal removal of his dukedom.