Non-working members of the royal family, Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, have their accommodation costs covered by the King for their apartment at Kensington Palace, as per a recent report. The audit report by the National Audit Office disclosed that the late Queen’s cousin and his spouse are among the non-working royals residing in properties within royal palaces provided at a reduced rate, typically around 60% of the market value.
However, the NAO report highlighted discrepancies in the rental rates, with the Kents’ property not having a documented valuation before 2026. Referred to as the “Rent-a-Kents,” the couple faced scrutiny back in 2002 for paying a nominal rent of £69 per week for their lavish Apartment 10, despite not being active members of the royal duties.
Following demands from MPs for them to pay the full rent, the late Queen intervened by offering to pay a commercial rate rent of £120,000 annually on their behalf until 2009. Subsequently, it was revealed that the King has been covering their rent post-2009, honoring the late Queen’s commitment.
The exact amount and commencement of the rent payments from the Privy Purse remain undisclosed, but the NAO reported a 34% increase in rent between 2020 and 2026, amounting to 63% of the property’s 2026 market value. Additionally, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh secured a long-term lease in 2007 for Bagshot Park, paying a nominal £5 million, with Edward’s company listed as the leaseholder.
Princess Alexandra resides in Thatched House Lodge in Richmond Park, with an annual rent of £1,500, adjusted periodically, following a premium payment in 1995. Her daughter, Marina Ogilvy, rents a cottage on the Windsor Estate for £17,436 annually. The NAO report sheds light on the property arrangements of the Royal Family, following an enquiry by the Public Accounts Committee into Crown Estate dealings with the royals.
While transparency has been emphasized, calls for further scrutiny and reform in royal funding have been made, emphasizing the need for greater clarity and accountability in the management of royal properties.
