Prince Andrew could face parliamentary debate over conduct

"Prince Andrew could face a parliamentary debate on his conduct despite the government so far refusing to allocate time in the House of Commons, as the Liberal Democrats indicated they were exploring ways of raising the issue including in an opposition day debate. Andrew is reportedly in advanced talks with the king's representatives over moving out of the 30-room Grade II-listed Royal Lodge at Windsor, despite his cast-iron lease running until 2078."

"They added: The first thing we need is proper transparency and accountability that's why we've called for the crown estate and Prince Andrew to give evidence under oath in parliament. While noting that the government controls the timing of such debates, the source said the Lib Dems hoped an eventual move by parliament would be hand in hand with the palace and in line with the king's wishes."

"The comments signal that the Lib Dems want to frame any discussion of Andrew's future as a matter of public accountability rather than of personal scandal, reflecting growing unease in Westminster about the lack of transparency around royal finances and grace-and-favour residences. Party figures have privately suggested the episode underlines the need for modern standards of public scrutiny to apply across all publicly funded estates, including those managed by the crown estate."

Parliamentary debate on Prince Andrew's conduct is possible despite the government declining to allocate Commons time, with the Liberal Democrats exploring options including an opposition day debate. Andrew is reportedly in talks with the king's representatives to leave the 30-room Grade II-listed Royal Lodge at Windsor despite a lease running until 2078. Calls exist to remove his Duke of York title, a step requiring legislation. The government says the royal family prefers parliamentary focus on other issues. The Lib Dems seek transparency and accountability, urging the crown estate and Prince Andrew to give evidence under oath and broader public scrutiny of royal finances and residences.

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