Royal Budget Inn: King Charles 'Throws B-List' Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie Into Staff Quarters During Holiday Overbooking Fiasco

King Charles III reportedly decided to "throw B-list" royals Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh into the servant quarters due to Sandringham overcrowding this holiday season, a source shared.

The senior royals encountered unexpected sleeping arrangements due to space constraints at the royal estate. Despite Sandringham's grandeur, the influx of family members led to accommodations being stretched thin.

Consequently, the Duke and Duchess were assigned to staff quarters, with household staff vacating their usual rooms to accommodate the royal couple.

This situation arose amid reports that Their Royal Highnesses were initially slated to share Wood Farm Cottage with Prince Andrew during the festivities. However, they reportedly expressed discomfort with this arrangement, given the Duke of York's recent controversies. Their concerns were alleviated when Andrew chose to forgo the Sandringham gathering, opting instead to remain at Windsor with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson.

The allocation of staff quarters to senior royals underscores the challenges of accommodating an extended family within the estate. Royal commentator Rebecca English noted that such arrangements, while seemingly modest, are sometimes necessary to house all attendees during large family gatherings.

This strategic move aims to prevent further damage to the monarchy’s reputation after recent revelations about Andrew's alleged ties to Chinese spy Yang Tengbo.

According to palace insiders, Ferguson, affectionately known as "Fergie," has taken on the role of peacekeeper with remarkable grace. Her enduring influence over the embattled Duke has already proven effective in convincing him to withdraw from the royal family's Christmas celebrations at Sandringham. Instead, Andrew and Fergie spent the holiday season quietly at the Royal Lodge in Windsor, marking a departure from tradition.

The new controversy centers on Andrew’s association with Tengbo, who has been banned from the U.K. on national security grounds. The businessman, who attended events at royal residences, is accused of exploiting his relationship with the Duke for influence.

This has reignited calls for the eighth in line to the throne to distance himself from public royal duties permanently. By stepping away from high-profile appearances, Andrew reportedly hopes to deflect further criticism.

In recent months, Sophie has stepped up her royal duties, representing the King at various international events. Notably, she visited Tanzania as the Global Ambassador for the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, celebrating collaborations in health, agriculture and women's empowerment.

Sophie's influence extends to her relationships with the royal family. She has been a steadfast supporter of Kate, Princess of Wales, especially during her future queen's health struggles. Their close bond is evident, with Sophie often providing guidance and companionship, as seen during her thoughtful gesture for an emotional Catherine at November 9's Remembrance Sunday event.

GBN reported on the expert comments.