Fury Over Plans for Royal Funeral for Prince Andrew
Prince Andrew remains on a secret government list for a high-profile royal funeral, despite losing his titles. Senior Whitehall sources indicate the plan exists as part of the government's detailed funeral arrangements for the Royal Family. Critics question the honor given his association with Jeffr
Key takeaways
- Prince Andrew remains on a secret government list for a high-profile royal ceremonial funeral.
- The funeral plans are part of detailed 'bridge' arrangements for members of the Royal Family.
- Critics question the honor given Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein and taxpayer cost.
- Senior Whitehall sources and royal experts have provided details on the potential arrangements.
Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is reportedly slated for a royal ceremonial funeral, a plan that has drawn criticism. Despite being stripped of his military affiliations and royal patronages, senior Whitehall sources have indicated that the former Duke of York is included on a secret government list detailing funeral arrangements for members of the Royal Family.
These government plans, referred to as 'bridge' plans, meticulously outline funeral procedures for royals far in advance. This approach has been used for previous royal funerals, such as 'Operation London Bridge' for Queen Elizabeth and 'Operation Forth Bridge' for Prince Philip.
While specific details of the plan for Mountbatten-Windsor are not public, royal commentators suggest a service might take place at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle. This chapel has hosted significant royal events, including funerals and weddings. Burial is anticipated at the Royal Burial Ground at Frogmore in Windsor.
The plan for the 66-year-old Mountbatten-Windsor is overseen by the Cabinet Office and is subject to ongoing review. Given his current health, it is not expected to be enacted soon.
However, the prospect of a royal funeral for Andrew has faced strong opposition. US lawyer Gloria Allred, representing victims of Jeffrey Epstein, questioned the appropriateness of such an honor given Andrew's association with the convicted sex offender. She also raised concerns about potential costs borne by UK taxpayers.
Alicia Kearns, a Conservative MP, stated that Andrew should not receive a royal funeral under any circumstances and called for the revocation of such plans. Norman Baker, a former government minister, described the situation as a potential oversight, arguing that Mountbatten-Windsor, now a commoner, should not receive royal funeral honors.
The plans for Andrew may have been updated to reflect his status as a non-working royal, a change that followed King Charles revoking his military titles and HRH style in November of the previous year. Royal experts have drawn comparisons to the funeral of Princess Margaret, which included a private service at St George's Chapel attended by a limited number of royals.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
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