The monarch navigates challenges involving Prince Andrew and his daughters amid plans to slim down the monarchy.
King Charles is grappling with a significant dilemma regarding the future of his nieces, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, as tensions surrounding Prince Andrew continue to mount.
The controversy stems from Andrew’s ability to retain the Royal Lodge despite having his royal funding cut by Charles. Although Andrew proved he had sufficient resources for necessary repairs, questions linger about the source of his earnings, including concerns raised by his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson’s £2 million Mayfair property purchase.
Insiders reveal that Andrew intends to pass the lease of the Royal Lodge to his daughters, which has reportedly left Charles in a difficult position. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams explained the complexities of the situation: “Anything involving the Yorks always involves Beatrice and Eugenie, as they are so very close. The King couldn’t possibly afford any more problems, as there’s enough trouble as it is.”
This issue has been further complicated by Charles’s goal to streamline the monarchy, which includes reducing the roles of non-working royals such as Andrew. According to Daily Mail columnist Ephraim Hardcastle, the King has no plans to grant Beatrice and Eugenie more prominent roles within the royal family.
The situation has also drawn Prince William’s attention, with reports suggesting he is preparing “non-negotiable rules” for Andrew to address the ongoing dysfunction.
While the King continues to deliberate on whether to take decisive action or leave the matter for William to handle in the future, the challenges surrounding the York family underscore the broader difficulties of maintaining harmony within the royal institution.
