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Prince Andrew's Expenses Spark Public Outrage

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 19:34 GMT by News 8000
      Locales: UNITED STATES, UNITED KINGDOM

LONDON - February 24th, 2026 - Mounting scrutiny continues to surround Prince Andrew, Duke of York, as newly released data from Freedom of Information requests to the Metropolitan Police and the Royal Air Force details significant public expenditure linked to his travel, security, and use of airbases. These revelations, totaling over GBP92,684.66 in documented charges, are reigniting debate over the appropriate use of taxpayer money, particularly in the face of ongoing economic hardship and the Prince's already tarnished public image.

The initial findings, publicized earlier this week, reveal GBP33,729.10 attributed to private air travel, GBP48,369.71 designated for police security services, and GBP10,585.85 related to usage of Royal Air Force airbases. While these figures represent a specific snapshot of documented expenses, investigators are now broadening their scope to examine potential related costs, including personnel time, logistical support, and operational overhead.

This isn't simply about the raw numbers, however. The timing of these disclosures, coupled with Prince Andrew's existing legal battles and reputational damage stemming from the settlement of the sexual assault case, has amplified public anger and fueled demands for greater transparency. Critics argue that even if the expenditures fall within legal boundaries, they are ethically questionable and demonstrate a blatant disregard for public sentiment.

"The principle at stake isn't necessarily about whether these expenses were illegal, but whether they were justified," explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, a political ethics professor at the London School of Economics. "In a period where public services are strained and many families are struggling to make ends meet, it's reasonable to ask whether the Duke's personal needs were prioritized over those of the nation."

Beyond the headline figures, deeper analysis reveals a pattern of expenditure stretching back several years, prompting speculation about the full extent of the financial burden borne by taxpayers. The Freedom of Information requests, meticulously compiled by investigative journalist Sarah Jennings, have uncovered instances of chartered flights for short distances that critics argue could have been avoided with alternative, more cost-effective transportation. Similarly, the level of police protection provided appears disproportionately high, given that the Prince was no longer actively undertaking royal duties following his stepping down in 2019.

The RAF airbase usage is also coming under fire. Documents suggest frequent utilization of facilities for what are described as "personal logistical support," raising questions about the necessity and financial implications of dedicating military resources to private endeavors. Defence analysts are suggesting a comprehensive audit is needed to determine whether comparable services would have been available - and at what cost - through civilian alternatives.

The current investigation is also examining possible indirect costs associated with these expenditures. For instance, the prolonged deployment of police officers to provide personal security requires overtime payments and potentially diverts resources from crucial public safety initiatives. Likewise, the use of RAF airbases may necessitate rescheduling of military training exercises or operational deployments, incurring further financial and logistical complications.

Public reaction has been swift and condemnatory. Online petitions calling for a full public inquiry have garnered thousands of signatures, and social media platforms are rife with outrage. "It's a slap in the face," stated one commenter on X (formerly Twitter). "People are losing their homes, and this is where our money goes?" Another user suggested the funds could be better allocated to supporting vital healthcare services or addressing the growing cost of living crisis.

The Metropolitan Police and the RAF have both stated that they are cooperating fully with the investigation and are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability. However, opposition MPs are calling for a more independent inquiry, arguing that internal reviews may not be sufficient to address the gravity of the allegations.

This scandal, layered on top of the Prince's previous association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, continues to cast a long shadow over the Royal Family. The Royal Family has remained largely silent, offering only brief statements emphasizing their commitment to upholding the highest standards of public service. However, calls for a more decisive stance are growing louder. The Duke of York, who has maintained his innocence regarding all allegations, has yet to publicly address these specific financial concerns.