King Charles Covers Rent for Prince Michael and Princess Michael of Kent Amid Controversy
The lesser-known royal couple living rent-free - despite Palace insisting they'd foot bill
Express
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A recent National Audit Office report reveals that King Charles is paying the rent for Prince Michael and Princess Michael of Kent, who have lived rent-free in a Kensington Palace apartment since 1978. This arrangement contradicts previous statements from the Palace that the couple would cover their own housing costs.
- 01Prince Michael and Princess Michael of Kent have lived in a Kensington Palace apartment since 1978, initially at a peppercorn rent of £69 per week.
- 02Despite earlier claims, King Charles now pays their rent from the Privy Purse, raising questions about accountability.
- 03The couple's rent was previously covered by the late Queen Elizabeth II until 2010, when it was supposed to shift to them.
- 04The rent has increased by 34% from 2020 to 2026 and is currently 63% of a projected open-market valuation for 2026.
- 05The Palace has expressed gratitude for the NAO report, emphasizing its commitment to transparency regarding royal property arrangements.
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A new report from the National Audit Office (NAO) has revealed that King Charles is covering the rent for Prince Michael of Kent and Princess Michael of Kent, who have resided in a Kensington Palace apartment since 1978. Initially, they paid a nominal rent of just £69 a week, but in 2008, Buckingham Palace announced they would be charged the full commercial rate from 2010. However, the late Queen Elizabeth II covered their rent until 2010, and the NAO report indicates that King Charles continues this practice, contradicting earlier Palace statements that the couple would pay their own rent. The report also notes a significant increase in rent costs, which have risen by 34% between 2020 and 2026. The Palace welcomed the NAO's findings, reiterating their commitment to transparency in royal property management. A spokesperson for The Crown Estate confirmed that their lease agreements are based on independent advice and market valuations.
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The funding of royal residences through the Privy Purse raises questions about public accountability and the use of royal funds.
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