PM Starmer Urges Parliament Probe of Prince Andrew Royal Lodge Scandal

Prince Andrew faces increasing calls for accountability and legal consequences amid ongoing scandals related to his association with Jeffrey Epstein and alleged sexual misconduct. Sir Keir Starmer supports parliamentary scrutiny of Andrew's use of Crown properties, including his rent-free 75-year lease on the Royal Lodge, as public outrage grows over his financial privileges despite paying little in rent or utilities. Parliament is considering legislation that would allow King Charles to formally strip Andrew of his Duke of York title, which Andrew has voluntarily stopped using to avoid overshadowing the royal family. Critics argue that Andrew's continued residence at Royal Lodge and the lack of formal action against him reflect a failure by the monarchy and government to address the scandal adequately. Meanwhile, Andrew's defenders emphasize the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, though royal biographer Andrew Lownie and others suggest a trial is likely given forthcoming damaging revelations and public pressure. The case highlights broader concerns about institutional complicity and the challenge of holding a royal figure accountable under the law.