The King has increased pressure on the Duke of York by reportedly cutting his ten-member private security team, a move that could force Prince Andrew to fund his own security at Royal Lodge, his residence in Windsor. Without this security detail, Andrew may struggle to remain in the property, potentially facing eviction.
Reports indicate that the security guards have been informed their services will not be required after autumn. A source shared with a private news outlet, “Everyone is speculating this means the Duke will have to leave the Royal Lodge because what other reason could there be to take his security away? They are all working the final weeks of their contract till the end of October. It’s not thought anyone is being lined up to replace them. It isn’t a secret that the King wants him out.”
Earlier this year, it was revealed that the King was prepared to withdraw private funding for Andrew’s security in a growing dispute over the future of Royal Lodge. Despite this, the Duke had not believed his elder brother would take such a step.
Andrew’s determination to stay at Royal Lodge, where he lives with his ex-wife, Sarah, Duchess of York, has become increasingly contentious. The property, with its 30 rooms, is seen as excessive for someone who no longer holds any official duties within the Royal Family. Efforts to move him to the smaller Frogmore Cottage, previously occupied by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have failed.
Andrew reportedly hopes to pass on the lease of Royal Lodge to his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. However, Buckingham Palace courtiers recognize that by insisting he pay for his security, they may pressure him into leaving.
A palace source recently hinted, “As things stand, life at Royal Lodge is set to become increasingly cold and uncomfortable for the Duke.” Another source added that the move could be handled “with grace and dignity or it can be forced upon him.”
The Duke’s 75-year lease on the Grade II-listed Royal Lodge, signed in 2003, allows him to stay until 2078, provided he maintains the property. The lease requires him to repaint the house every five years and ensure its upkeep, including repairs and necessary rebuilding.
A source previously asserted that Andrew would not be evicted “so long as he can fulfil his contractual obligations.” However, the property is reportedly in need of significant repairs, and Andrew’s financial situation remains unclear, further complicating his ability to stay.
The Duke of York stepped down from royal duties in 2019 after a widely criticized Newsnight interview, in which he failed to express regret for his association with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Andrew later paid millions to settle a civil lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of abuse—allegations he has consistently denied, without admitting liability.
Despite these denials, the King has remained firm that Andrew will not return to any public roles. The Duke’s finances have long been shrouded in secrecy, with much speculation surrounding his business dealings.
The Duke’s office could not be reached for comment, and Buckingham Palace declined to comment on security matters.
