Laura Elston

The Crown Estate defended the terms of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s Royal Lodge lease before the Public Accounts Committee, stating that subletting rights and refurbishment investments provided good value at the time. A National Audit Office investigation revealed he earned private income from subletting cottages while paying minimal rent. Committee members sought further details on the sums involved, which the royal household indicated it could supply confidentially. The hearing also highlighted NAO findings that King Charles pays for Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie’s accommodation in royal residences, with their rents previously based on outdated market valuations. Royal household officials said security needs and a limited pool of eligible tenants influence rental policies and that valuation practices may be updated following scrutiny.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, made a surprise cameo on BBC Radio 4’s long‑running drama The Archers, recorded secretly in May and broadcast during the show’s 75th anniversary year. Appearing as the honorary president of Linking Environment and Farming at the fictional Borchester Show, she followed past royal guests including Queen Camilla and Princess Margaret. Behind‑the‑scenes images showed her meeting cast members, while the programme’s longstanding popularity and history of addressing social issues were highlighted.

Prince Harry faces unresolved security issues that may prevent Meghan and their children from joining him on an upcoming UK visit, as a key Risk Management Board review has not yet taken place. His team continues to seek safe arrangements, while King Charles III has offered royal accommodation but awaits confirmation. The family would not receive taxpayer-funded protection outside royal residences. Harry’s ongoing dispute with the Home Office over his security status, which changed after stepping down as a working royal, remains a central obstacle. A government spokesperson defended the existing protective security system as rigorous and proportionate.