Prince William and Kate ‘ordered by King Charles’ to make public appearance alongside Prince Andrew
King Charles has overruled Prince William in a move to welcome Prince Andrew back into the Royal Family fold, according to sources.
The monarch urged the Prince of Wales to drive the Duke of York to church in Scotland last month.
This public appearance alongside William and Kate has been seen as a significant boost for the disgraced duke.
A royal insider revealed there had been confusion over Andrew’s travel arrangements until he received a call on Sunday morning.
The source said regarding Andrew’s appearance with William and Kate: “It’s more than he (Andrew) could have wished for.”
Sarah Ferguson, Andrew’s ex-wife, has been staying at Balmoral with the royals, with one source describing her as the “life and soul” of family gatherings.
The King has had multiple discussions with his brother regarding his future role and while Andrew will not return to public duties he will be welcomed back into the family fold.
A source told the Mirror: “The King feels he has an awful lot on his in-tray and this is one issue he wants to draw a line under.”
The King’s decision has caused some tension within the family.
Insiders suggest Prince William had “absolutely no desire” to be seen with his uncle in public, despite attending private functions together.
“It appears he may have had his wings clipped somewhat,” one insider remarked.
The Duke of York is said to be encouraged by the family’s support after being excluded from public events.
It comes as Prince Andrew and King Charles remain at odds over the Royal Lodge.
The King wants his brother to move out of the property and downsize to a smaller residence.
However, Andrew who signed a 75-year lease for the Royal Lodge in 2003 has no plans to move out.
Andrew intends to honour the remaining years of his lease before passing the lease on to his children Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie once he has died.
