GMB: Susanna Reid scolds Prince Andrew’s ex during debate

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson may have to lobby the King for more money to help pay for works to be carried out at Royal Lodge, according to a royal expert. The Duke has already spent up to £7million of his own money on refurbishments at the property, but faces a struggle to pay for more work as his annual £249,000 grant will be slashed from April.

Tune into our Royal Family Snapchat Show, every Monday exclusively on Snapchat

Speaking on today’s Royal Round Up, Express royal correspondent Richard Palmer said there are “deals that can be done” to make sure Andrew gets the support he needs.

He explained the financial workings of the royal properties, explaining that while Frogmore Cottage – where it has been suggested Andrew could move to – is paid for by the UK taxpayer, Royal Lodge is owned by the Crown Estate.

He said: “The Crown Estate is owned by the King in name only, it’s an independent profit-making business set up to generate money for the government.

“There is on the Windsor Estate an understanding between the Crown Estate and the royal household that sometimes deals can be done to provide accommodation for members of the Royal Family.”

Mr Palmer also pointed out that when Andrew signed his 75-year lease on Royal Lodge, part of the agreement was that he would pay for any necessary repairs and renovations.

With the King planning to cut his grant, it is not known if the Duke will be able to keep up with the payments.

It has been reported that the front of Royal Lodge needs repainting, a job which is expected to cost around £1million.

READ MORE: Zara and Mike Tindall show off ‘tactile’ relationship in new pictures

It was recently revealed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been asked to vacate Frogmore Cottage, with Charles hoping to move Andrew in there instead.

Frogmore was renovated while Harry and Meghan were living there in 2019, with the couple spending around £2.4million on the property.

If Andrew is forced to move out of Royal Lodge he may be entitled to receive his £7million back as compensation for the refurbishments he paid for.

Despite claims that the late Queen left all her money to King Charles in order to avoid inheritance tax, many royal experts have speculated he was left something in a trust fund.

Don’t miss…
Royal Family likened to the Kardashians thanks to Sussex drama [LATEST]
Harry and Meghan under fire for ‘confusing U-turns’ in row with royals [SPOTLIGHT]
Meghan had ‘ambitions’ of marrying into Royal Family, says Brian Cox [REVEAL]

Andrew is also supported by his ex-wife Fergie, who makes her own money through her book and business ventures.

The Duchess of York was recently in the US promoting her new historical romance novel, “A Most Intriguing Lady”.

She made an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show and The View, as well as giving an intimate talk at the 92nd Street Y Center in New York.

Although Fergie and Andrew divorced in 1996, they remain close and even still live together at the Windsor home.

Source: Read Full Article