A report by the National Audit Office has revealed that Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie have lived rent-free in exclusive palace properties for nearly 20 years, according to the report. Their London apartments, including one in St James's Palace, are funded by King Charles from his private Duchy of Lancaster income—not from taxpayer money. The disclosure has raised questions about the fairness of housing benefits for non-working royals.

Almost 20 years of rent-free living funded by the Duchy of Lancaster

The source article states that the princesses have been subsidised for nearly two decades, first by their grandmother Queen Elizabeth and now by their uncle King Charles.. The funding comes from the Privy Purse, which is derived from the Duchy of Lancaster—a private estate that provides the monarch with disposable income. According to the National Audit Office report, no taxpayer money was involved in the arrangements. The interiors of their homes are described as surprisingly low-key, with light painted walls, family photographs, and books, a far cry from the opulent furnishings one might expect of royal residences.

What the National Audit Office scrutinised beyond the princesses

The report laid bare what it called 'cosy deals' that both working and non-working royals have benefited from regarding residences, according to the source. the findings specifically included Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's daughters, who perform no royal duties. The broader context suggests a pattern of royal housing subsidies that are not always publicly documented. The NAO report likely examined other arrangements, though the article focuses on Beatrice and Eugenie's situation.

Why the fairness question persists despite no taxpayer money

As the source article notes, both princesses have their own careers, high-flying husbands, and multi-million-pound homes elsewhere. The report itself sparked questions about whether they should be expected to pay their own way. The fact that no taxpayer funds are used does not fully quiet criticism, as the monarchy's private wealth is still a public trust issue. The open question remains: will King Charles continue this subsidy, and what—if any—changes might follow the NAO's findings? Additionally, the report does not specify the exact value of the free rent or whether the princesses would face any adjustment in future.

Light walls and family photos: Inside the princesses' low-key apartments

The source article describes the interiors of Beatrice and Eugenie's London homes as surprisingly understated. Beatrice's St James's Palace apartment features light interiors, sweet family photos, modrn décor, and chic artwork. The white walls are adorned with black-and-white pencil art, and the room includes a statement mirror and long white curtains with a red and blue tree print. These details, revealed by the report, paint a picture of homes that are warm and welcoming rather than grand and formal, reflecting the princesses' personal tastes despite their royal status.