Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor: Outrage as disgraced former prince now eligible for pension
The former prince is facing a police probe into sex-trafficking - but tomorrow he can claim taxpayer-funded benefits.
In the midst of public scrutiny surrounding the Epstein files, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s latest financial claim is causing outrage.
The disgraced ex-prince, who turns 66-years-old tomorrow, will be allowed to claim his annual pension - worth about $14,000.
In addition, he’ll be able to enjoy free bus and tube travel across London.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Members of the royal family are typically not allowed to claim these benefits, but Andrew falls under an exception.
According to The Sun, because the ex-duke paid national insurance contributions while he served in the navy for 22 years, the usual rule doesn’t apply to him.
King Charles, 77, has received his pension for the past 11 years, but donates it to the charity Age UK.
Whether Andrew will follow this example remains unknown. Royal author and expert Phil Dampier said the former prince doesn’t really have a choice.
“If Andrew wants to do the right thing and take steps to improve his reputation, then he would do well to donate his state pension to charity, maybe even Eugenie’s charity, combating modern slavery and human trafficking, The Anti-Slavery Collective.”
According to multiple sources, Andrew has reportedly felt financial strain since his connection to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein came under renewed examination.
He already enjoys an annual navy pension worth about $40,000 a year.
This comes as Andrew faces an investigation into sex trafficking allegations amid claims that women were flown in and out of the UK on Epstein’s private plane.
Four British police forces are now confirmed to be “assessing” claims to see if full criminal investigations are needed.
The forces involved include Thames Valley police, which is assessing two separate claims against Mountbatten-Windsor and whether they merit a full criminal investigation, and Surrey police, which is assessing another allegation against him.
His birthday comes just two weeks after he was kicked out of the Royal Lodge under the cover of darkness.
The royal family will not publicly mark his birthday, which he is expected to spend in the “exile” of Sandringham as Sarah Ferguson remains out of the country.
The cost of Andrew’s day-to-day life is currently being funded by the King.
