Prince Andrew is now under pressure to take a big decision regarding his next step, especially when it comes to the upcoming Sandringham gathering.
Cancer-stricken King Charles, who already had a rough year, is in no mood to deal with another uncomfortable conversation with his disgraced brother after the Royal Lodge row.
However, there is a lunch coming up at the Buckingham Palace on Thursday, and sources claim that the Duke of York is “under pressure to step away” on his own.
“There would inevitably have to be some very awkward conversations and the King would not relish making his brother squirm,” an insider told The Sun. “Andrew has managed the unthinkable and made a complete t*t of himself even before the Christmas party.”
More than 50 members of the extended Royal Family are expected to attend the lunch. However, courtiers are pleading Andrew to not do anything that would force Charles to ban him officially.
“It’s been a hell of a year for The Firm and the last thing they want is this scandal dragging on during a period of celebration,” the source said, adding that Andrew has been “foolish”.
However, the more the shamed royal “keeps his head down the sooner everyone can move on.”
Another source noted that the King would be hesitant to ban his brother outright and is relying on courtiers for a diplomatic solution as they are “advising” him.