Prince Andrew has paid no rent on Royal Lodge for more than 20 years

Prince Andrew has not paid rent on Royal Lodge for over two decades under a 75-year lease signed in 2003. The agreement stipulated an initial payment of £1 million for the lease and at least £7.5 million for refurbishments, with a nominal "one peppercorn (if demanded)" annual rent thereafter. The lease allows Andrew and his family to reside at the property until 2078. This revelation follows increased scrutiny of the royal's residence amidst ongoing controversy, including calls for him to surrender his titles and resign from public life. Some lawmakers have suggested Parliament has an interest in reviewing the financial aspects of the lease, particularly if taxpayer money is involved. The Crown Estate released a copy of the lease to address calls for transparency, stating the decision to share the document was made following inquiries. The lease agreement includes clauses allowing the Crown Estate to forfeit the contract if rent is unpaid for 21 days or if there are breaches of tenant covenants, such as failure to maintain the grounds or repaint the building every five years. While the terms of the lease are complex and difficult to break, there is pressure on Prince Andrew t... download the app to read more