Palace in Talks Over Andrew's Royal Lodge Lease

Virginia Giuffre's posthumous memoir and leaked communications have intensified allegations of sexual misconduct and further damaged Prince Andrew's reputation. Documents show Andrew holds a 75‑year lease on the 30‑room Royal Lodge, signed in 2003 and running until 2078, that requires only a symbolic “one peppercorn (if demanded)” annual rent after he paid large upfront sums (reported about £5m for repairs, £2.5m to buy out future rent and a £1m premium). The redaction of lease terms and the peppercorn arrangement have provoked public outrage, protests at Windsor Great Park, and cross‑party parliamentary scrutiny, with the Public Accounts Committee seeking information from the Crown Estate and HM Treasury. Buckingham Palace is in advanced talks to persuade Andrew to vacate the Lodge, with negotiations reportedly ongoing over relocation options and possible compensation while he resists leaving; commentators have suggested alternatives including Frogmore Cottage, the Castle of Mey or relocation abroad. Andrew has announced he will no longer use his Duke of York title and other honours and continues to deny wrongdoing.