The Lownie book also reignited speculation about how Andrew funded his reported $15million settlement with Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking victim Virginia Giuffre in 2022 – a sum he denies was an admission of guilt.
The source of those funds has never been publicly confirmed, though palace aides have long insisted “no public money was used.”
Meanwhile, royal critics have pointed out King Charles, 76, and Prince William, 43, both receive tens of millions of pounds annually through their private estates – figures far exceeding the salaries of most elected heads of state. But amid questions about royal transparency, Andrew’s scandals have proven to be a convenient shield.
A former courtier said: “Every institution needs a fall guy, and Andrew fits that role perfectly. His disgrace makes everyone else look like models of duty. The family won’t say it out loud, but they’d rather see him ridiculed in the press than have the public asking where the money really goes.”
For immediately, the Duke remains largely silent – with insiders saying his isolation is serving “both his punishment and his purpose.”
About the Author
