Keir Starmer faces pressure to permit parliamentary debates on Prince Andrew. Downing Street confirmed that the Government currently has no plans to schedule discussions on the royal scandal in the Commons. Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle noted the potential for debate in the chamber but clarified that he lacked authority to allocate time for royal-related talks under parliamentary regulations.
Labour MP Clive Lewis urged the Prime Minister to facilitate a debate on the issue, emphasizing the government’s reluctance to address urgent royal family matters. Lewis emphasized the importance of MPs holding the monarchy accountable, particularly concerning inquiries into royal tax benefits and property ownership.
Recent revelations disclosed that Prince Andrew has resided at Royal Lodge in Windsor since 2003 with nominal rent. However, discussions within the Commons on Andrew’s connections with Jeffrey Epstein and his rent-free accommodation necessitate a formal motion, subject to the Government’s control over parliamentary scheduling.
Ministers privately advocated for Prince Andrew’s departure from the Windsor Estate this week, citing concerns about his conduct and alleged exploitation of state resources. The Public Accounts Committee announced intentions to scrutinize the lease agreements for the mansion, with Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown planning inquiries with the Crown Estate and the Treasury.
No10 officials clarified that Parliament would not allocate time for deliberations on Prince Andrew’s behavior, as the royal family prefers legislative focus on pressing national matters. The restrictions outlined in parliamentary protocols prevent the initiation of urgent questions related to the royal family, prompting calls for the reconsideration of these rules by Lord Foulkes and others.
Under the guidelines of Erskine May, the official procedural manual of Parliament, direct criticism of the royal family requires inclusion in a substantive motion. The ongoing debate underscores the need for potential revisions to parliamentary regulations to allow appropriate scrutiny of the Monarchy and Royal Family by elected representatives.