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King Charles has received a stern warning regarding his brother Prince Andrew’s reported plans to attend a pre-Christmas event at Buckingham Palace amid ongoing controversy. The caution comes from royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams, who spoke out about the potential ramifications of Andrew’s presence.
According to a report by the Daily Express, Prince Andrew is eager to attend King Charles’ annual pre-Christmas lunch for the Royal Family at Buckingham Palace. The event, traditionally held at Windsor Castle in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to return to Buckingham Palace for 2024.
The report claims, “Prince Andrew is hoping to attend” King Charles’ pre-Christmas event, “despite opting to skip Royal Family celebrations in Sandringham.” Addressing the reports, Fitzwilliams told Daily Mail, “I feel that the king is deeply frustrated with his brother.”
The royal expert elaborated on the challenges Andrew’s presence could pose, adding that the Duke of York is “pure poison to those who want the monarchy to be taken seriously.” Fitzwilliams issued a stark warning about the implications of Andrew’s attendance: “Attention has now shifted to the lunch given by Charles for his extended family which takes place at Buckingham Palace on Thursday.
If Andrew is pictured entering the headquarters of the monarchy, it would be outrageous and would overshadow the occasion.” Prince Andrew’s royal standing has been severely diminished in recent years due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein and a subsequent legal case in the United States, which he settled out of court. His ongoing controversies have cast a shadow over the monarchy, raising questions about his role in family events.
The annual pre-Christmas lunch serves as an important tradition for the Royal Family, bringing together extended relatives ahead of the official Christmas celebrations at Sandringham. However, the potential for public and media scrutiny looms large if Andrew’s presence is confirmed.
As King Charles prepares for the festive season, the decision over Andrew’s attendance could have significant implications for the monarchy’s public image. Fitzwilliams’ comments highlight the delicate balancing act Charles faces in managing family dynamics while upholding the reputation of the Royal Family.