Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey has called for Prince Andrew to appear before MPs to provide evidence regarding his leasing of the Royal Lodge. This request comes amid calls for increased transparency into royal finances and the operations of the independently-run Crown Estate, which facilitated the prince’s lease of the Windsor mansion. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed the importance of scrutinizing all Crown properties for accountability, emphasizing the need for proper oversight.
Pressure on Prince Andrew has escalated following his decision to relinquish his titles last week due to mounting scrutiny over his associations with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Recent revelations from documents obtained by BBC News shed light on the terms of the Royal Lodge agreement, revealing that the prince paid a nominal annual rent and made substantial upfront payments, totaling around £8 million, to effectively eliminate future rental obligations for the duration of the 75-year lease. In the event of early termination, Prince Andrew could reclaim portions of the upfront payments, gradually decreasing over the years.
Baroness Margaret Hodge, former chair of the Public Accounts Committee, criticized the arrangement, describing it as a dubious deal considering the Crown Estate’s obligation to maximize income for taxpayers. Amidst growing calls for more transparency in royal finances, she underscored the pervasive secrecy surrounding royal financial matters, prompting skepticism and inquiries. The Royal Family’s funding comes from various sources, including the Sovereign Grant, the Duchies of Lancaster, and Cornwall, with financial statements detailing the official duties and maintenance obligations funded by the Sovereign Grant.
In the US, the House Oversight Committee has expressed interest in hearing from Prince Andrew regarding his involvement with the Epstein case, following the release of certain documents to the public recently. Despite denials of the allegations against him, the prince faces mounting pressure to cooperate with authorities. Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, detailing her alleged encounter with Prince Andrew, has reignited interest in the case and raised expectations for further revelations. Prince Andrew’s tumultuous associations and financial dealings continue to generate scrutiny and calls for accountability
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.