Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, previously referred to as Prince Andrew, continues to be a supply of turmoil for the royal household.

Past the continuing scrutiny over his affiliation with Jeffrey Epstein, the monarchy is now dealing with questions on its monetary administration, following revelations that Andrew paid solely a token quantity to dwell within the lavish royal lodge. 

In the meantime, Andrew has been stripped of his titles and royal privileges, a loss that sources say has left him devastated.

Earlier than the disgraced Prince surrendered his tenancy on the Windsor Property the place he had lived for over twenty years, the phrases of his lease required him to pay solely “one peppercorn (if demanded) each year.” 

When this element turned public, the association sparked widespread outrage over whether or not taxpayers have been getting any worth from the deal.

Now, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has launched a full investigation as of December 2nd into whether or not Crown Property properties are being correctly managed, with Royal Lodge on the middle of the inquiry, Every day Mail confirmed. MPs have challenged the Crown Property to justify Andrew’s extremely favorable lease and show it advantages taxpayers.

When the allegations towards the previous Duke of York intensified, the PAC requested detailed explanations concerning his residing preparations again in October. 

The responses have solely lately been obtained, with committee chair Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown stating that “the knowledge offered clearly varieties the beginnings of a foundation for an inquiry.”

He added, “We now await the conclusions the Nationwide Audit Workplace will draw from this data, and plan to carry an inquiry based mostly on the ensuing proof base within the new 12 months.”

In that very same month, the PAC reached out to the Crown Property to handle main considerations over Andrew’s residing preparations. 

In a proper letter, Sir Geoffrey questioned whether or not it was nonetheless acceptable for Andrew to learn from such a good lease given his modified standing. 

He demanded up-to-date lease particulars noting that “any diminished or foregone lease revenue, together with from the Royal Lodge, reduces the Crown Property’s annual surplus and due to this fact could be a price to taxpayers.”

Sir Geoffrey additional requested the Crown Property to justify the minimal lease charged and ensure whether or not Andrew has fulfilled his duties for repairs and upkeep with out drawing on public funds.

The investigation comes simply two months after King Charles formally started eradicating his youthful brother’s remaining honors and privileges in gentle of the intense allegations towards him.

As The Blast beforehand reported, a Palace assertion launched on October 30 learn: “His Majesty has at this time initiated a proper course of to take away the Model, Titles and Honours of Prince Andrew.”

He was additionally served an eviction discover from the 30-room mansion set in 98 acres of Windsor Nice Park, which he shared together with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson. 

Within the aftermath of dropping his privileges, insiders declare that the 65-year-old is in a “darkish and fragile situation” and is struggling to deal with the repercussions.

Based on The Blast, Andrew’s well-being is a rising reason behind concern amongst his household, who concern he could take a terrifying transfer amid the sudden change in standing. 

‘There may be actual panic behind the scenes,” the insider stated. “Andrew is now utterly remoted and feels he is misplaced the whole lot – his title, his dwelling, his dignity. The household is terrified he would possibly do one thing drastic. He is informed folks he has nothing left to dwell for.”