Prince Andrew’s stay at Royal Lodge sparks funding ‘concerns’ from Royal expert

Royal expert expresses concerns over Prince Andrew’s funding sources during his stay at Royal Lodge. Andrew Lownie, currently working on a joint biography of the Duke and Sarah Ferguson, voiced apprehensions about how Prince Andrew may have utilized business connections linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Lownie highlighted these concerns in response to reports that Prince Andrew has secured the necessary finances for his stay at the Royal Lodge.

In reference to Prince Andrew’s association with Epstein, Lownie pointed out that the Duke himself acknowledged Epstein had introduced him to valuable business contacts. During Prince Andrew’s tenure as a special representative for trade and investment, he also established profitable ties in Central Asia and the Middle East. Lownie emphasised the need to scrutinize how Prince Andrew has leveraged these connections post his royal duties.

Court documents disclosed earlier this year revealed Prince Andrew’s extended visits to Epstein’s residence, sparking ongoing tensions regarding his occupancy at the deteriorating Royal Lodge estate in Berkshire. Despite offers from King Charles to relocate to Frogmore Cottage, which was previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Prince Andrew has remained steadfast in his refusal to vacate Royal Lodge.

Allegations against Prince Andrew have intensified following revelations from a 2015 lawsuit involving Ghislaine Maxwell and Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s victims. Giuffre’s claims of being coerced into sexual activities while in Epstein’s circle have cast a shadow over Prince Andrew’s past associations. The Duke of York, however, has vehemently denied all accusations against him.

The dynamics surrounding Prince Andrew’s financial sources and his ties to Epstein continue to attract public scrutiny. With his status as a working royal now relinquished, renewed focus on his business dealings raises questions about transparency and accountability. The ongoing saga sheds light on the complexities that arise when influential figures navigate personal relationships and professional ventures in the public eye.