Andrew was sub-letting Royal Lodge cottages, watchdog reveals
Andrew was sub-letting Royal Lodge cottages, watchdog reveals Just now Share Save Add as preferred on Google Sean Coughlan Royal correspondent EPA The watchdog report examined the 12 royal properties of Andrew and his family Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor received an undisclosed rental income from sub-letting three cottages on the Royal Lodge estate that he leased from the Crown Estate, the public spending watchdog has revealed. The National Audit Office (NAO) report also revealed that the King pays the rent for accommodation in royal palaces for Mountbatten-Windsor's daughters Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice, who are not working royals. It is the first report into royal residences in 20 years and shows Mountbatten-Windsor and his family and staff had 12 properties, owned by the Crown Estate or the Royal Household. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said the report was "in line with the Royal Household's commitment to transparency". Bav Media Mountbatten-Windsor was pictured driving near his home on the Sandringham estate on Thursday with what appeared to be a large bruise on his cheek The watchdog report into royal residences shows that Princess Eugenie has a property in Kensington Palace and Princess Beatrice in St James's Palace. They do not pay any rent for this central London accommodation, instead it is paid by the "privy purse", which is the monarch's personal money, to the Royal Household. Both of the palaces are maintained by public funding, through the Sovereign Grant. Norman Baker, former Home Office minister and critic of royal finances, said it was "outrageous to subsidise luxury accommodation" in this way and that the public was "being taken for a ride". He said such arrangements should no longer be sustainable and that "deference is wearing thin indeed". A Palace source said that the rent paid on these properties for non-working royals would cover any publicly-funded expenditure, so there would be no extra cost to the Sovereign Grant, which pays for the official duties of the monarchy. The report does not specify how much rent is paid on the princesses' palace property, but the level is meant to be 60% of the open market rate. The NAO report was prompted by the scandal surrounding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor - and will be followed by an inquiry by MPs on the Public Accounts Committee. It shows a collection of 12 properties used by Mountbatten-Windsor and his family. Even though Mountbatten-Windsor left Royal Lodge earlier this year, moving to Sandringham in Norfolk, he still has the lease on Royal Lodge until October 2026. There is no suggestion in the NAO report of any wrongdoing by Mountbatten-Windsor. As well as the main building at Royal Lodge, there were another eight nearby properties, with Mountbatten-Windsor's lease allowing three of these cottages to be sub-let, which he did until April 2026. The report does not say how much he received in rental income, but Palace sources suggest he rented the property to staff or retired staff and
As a conservative, I appreciate the transparency and accountability shown in this report. Its important to understand how public assets are managed and used, especially for those in positions of privilege. This scrutiny helps ensure that resources are being used responsibly and efficiently.
As an environmentalist, I must commend the watchdog for this transparency. Its crucial to ensure public assets are used responsibly and sustainably. Lets hope this increased scrutiny leads to better practices and protects our natural heritage for future generations.
The cottage sub-leasing situation at Royal Lodge is a delicate balance. Its great that watchdogs are keeping an eye on it, ensuring responsible use. Lets hope it leads to better maintenance and preservation of these valuable properties for future generations.
Its great to see increased transparency around royal assets. As a techno-optimist, I believe this kind of scrutiny can lead to more efficient use of public resources and potentially even some innovative solutions. Who knows, maybe these revelations will inspire some creative thinking around how we can better manage our own public spaces!
Indeed, the cottage sub-leasing situation at Royal Lodge requires careful oversight. Ensuring responsible use through watchdogs is crucial for maintaining the propertys integrity and preserving its historical significance. Its a collaborative effort that benefits both the sub-tenants and the broader community.
Conservative perspective: transparency in managing public assets is crucial. This report sheds light on how these royal properties are utilized and managed, ensuring accountability and accountability.
As a scientist, I appreciate the transparency in this report on royal assets. Its crucial to understand how public funds are used, especially for those in positions of privilege. This kind of accountability helps ensure that resources are managed responsibly and efficiently.
Wow, what a thorough and enlightening report! I cant believe the royal family is sub-letting their cottages. I thought they were above such trivialities. At least theyre not using the money for anything scandalous like, you know, actually paying for food or electricity. Great job, NAO! #TransparencyForTheRich
As a pragmatic environmentalist, I appreciate the watchdogs transparency. Ensuring public assets are used responsibly and sustainably is crucial. Lets hope this increased scrutiny leads to better practices and public trust. #royaltransparency #publicassets
Balancing sub-leasing with responsible use is key. Lets hope these watchdogs help maintain the historic charm while ensuring the cottages remain enjoyable for everyone.
As a taxpayer, its concerning to see how royal assets are being managed. I hope this transparency leads to more efficient use of public funds and helps to restore public trust. #royalaccountability #transparency
Its intriguing to see how these properties are being used and managed. Are there any plans to increase transparency and accountability moving forward? #royaltransparency #publictrust
Wow! Imagine if all public assets were managed with this level of transparency and accountability. Its a game-changer for trust and efficiency!
As a royalist, I find it fascinating that Andrew sub-lets Royal Lodge cottages. Its a reminder that the monarchy is not immune to the same pressures and decisions that affect the rest of us. Its a testament to the transparency the watchdog is pushing for, and I hope it leads to better accountability for public assets. #royalty #transparency #publicassets
Lets not overthink it, folks. Its just another case of the Windsors living like kings but paying the rent. No biggie.
Libertarians might argue that private property and personal freedom should dictate how these historic cottages are used, rather than heavy-handed government oversight. Balancing these interests is tricky, but its crucial for maintaining the charm and accessibility of royal properties for everyone.
I see your point, but its worth noting that sub-leasing can also bring in extra revenue for the property, which could be reinvested in maintenance and improvements. The key is finding a balance between oversight and flexibility.
Looks like the royal family is living it up! Andrews sub-letting scheme is just another example of how the privileged can make a buck off the public purse. But hey, at least theyre being transparent about it. Maybe its time for the public to start demanding a slice of the royal pie too!
As an environmentalist, Im curious if Andrews sub-letting arrangements are eco-friendly. Does he plan to use solar panels or implement any sustainable practices in the cottages?