King Charles may seek the help of Sarah Ferguson, Prince Andrew’s ex-wife, to maintain harmony with his controversial brother, according to insiders.
Andrew made headlines last week when court documents exposed his links to an alleged Chinese spy, who has since been named as Yang Tengbo.
The Duke of York claims he had “ceased all contact” with the businessman – who himself has denied he is a spy – after receiving advice from the government, and nothing sensitive was discussed. This comes after a tumultuous year where Andrew and the monarch have been at odds over the occupancy of Royal Lodge.
It’s now suggested that the King might request Sarah Ferguson’s assistance to keep his brother “out of the headlines”. The Times suggests that the duke’s former wife “might act as a bridge between the brothers”, particularly as Charles is “not fond of confrontation”.
The Duke and Duchess of York with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II outside Clarence House for the QueenMother’s 86th birthday in ( Image: Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images)
The Duchess of York has frequently expressed her admiration for Charles. “I’ve known the King all my life and I absolutely adore him,” she said.
“He’s kind and makes me laugh, and I love that he still calls me Fergie.”
In a Relative Values article for The Sunday Times, she even confessed to wishing the Royal Family “would ask me to do more”. While it is “highly unlikely that any formal role would be offered” to Fergie, according to the Times, her services could still prove beneficial.
Despite divorcing in 1996, Andrew and Fergie remain unusually close ( Image: Getty Images)
Citing insiders, the outlet suggests she might “help Andrew see sense” about moving out of Royal Lodge and into a property like Frogmore Cottage which “better suits” his status.
“If she could persuade her ex-husband to keep away from the camera lenses over the Christmas period, too, it would be the perfect present for Charles,” it states. Despite their divorce 28 years ago, Fergie and her ex-husband maintain a surprisingly close relationship, living under the same roof and often making public appearances together.
Convincing Andrew to maintain a low profile until the queries regarding his funding for Royal Lodge subside would also alleviate a significant concern for the King. The Duke of York’s annual “pocket money” payment of a million pounds from the King was halted in October.
