Senior Palace official sees Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor for two hours in unannounced visit

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor currently occupies spot eight in the succession order to the British throne

Lord Richard Benyon, who serves as Lord Chamberlain of the Royal Household, made an unannounced visit to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on Monday afternoon at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate.

The senior Palace official, who took up the role in 2024 after succeeding former MI5 chief Lord Parker of Minsmere, remained at the property for approximately two hours before departing.

As the most senior figure within the Royal Household, Lord Benyon oversees roughly 1,200 staff members and acts as the primary liaison between the monarch and the House of Lords.

Given that any alteration to the line of succession necessitates an Act of Parliament, the meeting has sparked speculation that formal discussions may be underway regarding Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s removal from his current eighth position.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Lord Benyon
Senior Palace official sees Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor for two hours in unannounced visit

The contents of the discussions between Lord Benyon and Mr Mountbatten-Windsor have not been disclosed.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment when approached by GB News.

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor currently occupies the eighth spot in the succession order to the British throne, despite having been stripped of his royal titles.

The 66-year-old was taken into custody on his birthday last month, spending 11 hours in police detention while officers searched his Norfolk residence.

Lord Richard Benyon
Richard Benyon at the State Opening of Parliament in 2017

He was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office relating to his former role as a UK trade envoy.

Following his release, Mr Mountbatten-Windsor remains under investigation by Thames Valley Police, with no charges yet brought against him.

King Charles has been present at his Norfolk estate since Friday, yet the brothers have not crossed paths during this period.

The monarch attended a Sunday morning service at St Mary Magdalene Church and was spotted driving around the grounds, at one point coming within two miles of Wood Farm.

Marsh Farm

A workman finishes off the top of a security fence, leaving space for gates at Marsh Farm, where Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is due to live on the Sandringham estate on February 26

Despite this proximity, Charles is thought to have no intention of visiting his younger sibling.

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor did receive a visit from the King’s vicar on Saturday.

The former duke is reportedly subject to stringent conditions during his stay, including a prohibition on horse riding, which is deemed inappropriate given the ongoing police inquiry.

He is also said to require permission and accompaniment to leave the estate, with all visitors needing prior approval.

Marsh Farm

Marsh Farm seen with its new erected gate and fence

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Sir Keir Starmer’s administration has indicated it will examine the possibility of introducing legislation to remove Mr Mountbatten-Windsor from the succession once the police inquiry reaches its conclusion.

Such a move would present significant constitutional complexity, requiring not only parliamentary approval but also consent from all 14 Commonwealth realms where King Charles serves as head of state.

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie would be unaffected by any changes to their father’s status, retaining their positions at ninth and twelfth in line, respectively, along with their HRH titles.

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has constantly denied any wrongdoing.