'Public should not be footing the bill for Andrew to live in luxury'

PRESSURE is continuing to mount on Prince Andrew to relinquish his 30-room Royal Lodge home in Windsor after it emerged he has only paid a “peppercorn” rent for the last 22 years.

- By Rebecca Russell Deputy Royal Editor

Copies of Andrew’s leasehold agreement with the Crown Estate from 2003 reveal that the prince, 65, signed a 75-year lease to live at the home, paying just £1million for a property that is thought to be now worth around £30m.

The document states Andrew, who gave up his Duke of York title on Friday, agreed a “peppercorn” rent “if demanded” each year, meaning a very low or nominal amount. The exact figure is not disclosed.

A separate National Audit Office report has revealed that Andrew was also required to pay £7.5m for refurbishments to Royal Lodge, which were completed in 2005.

Royal Lodge used to belong to the Queen Mother until her death in 2002. It has been claimed that King Charles was attempting to get his younger brother to relocate to a smaller nearby property.

Alternative

It has been suggested that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s former residence, Frogmore Cottage, could be a possible alternative for him.

The documents confirm Andrew’s lease will not expire until June 2078, with another clause stating the Crown Estate would have to pay the prince an estimated £558,000 if he were to give up the agreement.