Calls for Prince Andrew to Testify on Royal Lodge Lease
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has urged that Prince Andrew be summoned to provide evidence regarding his lease of Royal Lodge. This follows growing demands for transparency concerning royal finances and the independently managed Crown Estate, which leased the property to Andrew.
During Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Sir Ed proposed a select committee investigation to rigorously assess the Crown Estate, to which Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the need for thorough oversight of all Crown properties. Buckingham Palace has been approached for comments on the matter.
While there is no formal barrier preventing a House of Commons committee from requesting Prince Andrew’s testimony, such an appearance from a royal family member would set a precedent. It remains uncertain whether the committee would have the authority to compel his participation.
In a formal request to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which oversees public expenditure, Sir Ed stated the inquiry should gather evidence from all parties associated with Andrew’s housing arrangement. He mentioned that the public is rightfully questioning the appropriateness of this setup.
A spokesperson for the PAC indicated that they would not initiate an inquiry immediately, as their agenda is fully booked until the new year. However, they noted that the National Audit Office would review the Crown Estate’s annual report in the coming financial year as part of its regular activities.
Speaking on BBC Newsnight, Sarah Olney, a Liberal Democrat MP and PAC member, expressed that inquiries regarding the rent paid by Andrew are warranted to ensure taxpayer interests are safeguarded. She emphasized that they possess the authority to summon Prince Andrew for further clarification on this matter.
Baroness Margaret Hodge, who formerly chaired the PAC, criticized the Royal Lodge arrangement as “disadvantageous.” She underscored the necessity for increased financial transparency concerning royal finances, arguing that the ongoing secrecy raises numerous questions and skepticism about their financial practices.
