Did Tony Blair Influence Andrew's Royal Lodge Lease?
When Tony Blair was Prime Minister, a favorable deal was made in 2003 allowing Prince Andrew to move into Royal Lodge rent-free, arranged with the Crown Estate. This effectively enabled the then prince to live there without paying rent.
Inquiry into the Lease
Questions arise whether Sir Tony Blair will be called before the Commons Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to explain the 75-year lease Andrew Mountbatten Windsor signed with the Crown Estate, overseen by the Treasury. Blair was instrumental in appointing Andrew as Special Representative for International Trade and Investment in 2001, two years before the lease agreement.
Political Connections and Questions
Blair's favorable view of Andrew at the time fuels speculation about the lease terms. A senior Tory remarked:
“We need to know who knew what about that lease. Was there a political involvement and if so, what did Blair know? The PAC should haul him in.”
Public Reaction
During the recording of Have I Got News For You, just as the announcement came that Andrew was no longer a Prince, panellist Paul Merton joked,
“The bad news is he’s become King.”
Presenter Jason Manford added humorously,
“He’s losing his lease on Royal Lodge… I’ve heard Rachel Reeves has a place to rent though.”
This deal and the political ties behind it remain under scrutiny as the PAC considers its next steps.
Author's summary: Questions about Tony Blair’s role in securing Prince Andrew's favorable Royal Lodge lease spotlight potential political involvement and demand full transparency from the Commons PAC.