Prince Andrew is under growing pressure from British politicians to vacate the Royal Lodge, a grand mansion located on the grounds of Windsor Castle. Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, have resided in the Royal Lodge for over 20 years under a lease that extends until 2078. Recent revelations about the lease terms have intensified scrutiny of his living situation, especially following King Charles III's decision to cut off Andrew's financial support.

The leasehold agreement, which was made public this week, indicates that Andrew is required to pay only a nominal annual fee known as "peppercorn" rent. This arrangement has drawn criticism, particularly as Andrew's reputation has suffered due to his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and other controversies. Royal biographer Andrew Lownie remarked, "The optics on this aren't good and Charles can see that, the rest of the royal family can see that, the country can see it. But unfortunately Prince Andrew can't."

The Royal Lodge, which features 30 rooms and extensive grounds, was previously occupied by the Queen Mother. Andrew took over the property in 2003 after negotiating with the Crown Estate. While he is responsible for maintenance costs, including significant renovations that reportedly exceeded £7.5 million, he is not required to pay any additional rent beyond the symbolic peppercorn.

Calls for Andrew to vacate the property have increased, with some politicians arguing that he should no longer benefit from taxpayer support. Conservative MP Robert Jenrick stated, "He should really now leave public life forever, stop having any subsidy from the taxpayer whatsoever and go and lead an entirely private life."

Despite the mounting pressure, the terms of the lease make it difficult for Andrew to be evicted. The Crown Estate would need to compensate him approximately £500,000 to terminate the lease, a decision that would require government approval. Andrew's lease can also be transferred to Ferguson or their daughters, Beatrice and Eugenie, upon his death.

In a recent statement, Andrew announced he would relinquish his royal titles and membership in the Order of the Garter, acknowledging that ongoing accusations against him distract from the royal family's work. However, critics argue that this move does not go far enough. Some members of Parliament are advocating for a vote to formally remove Andrew's titles, a process that has not occurred since 1917.

As the controversy surrounding Andrew continues, he remains at the Royal Lodge, located just 10 kilometers from other royal family members. For now, it appears he will continue to reside in the mansion, despite the increasing calls for him to step away from public life and the royal family altogether.