In a move that has reportedly left Queen Camilla deeply upset, Prince William, the Prince of Wales, has made a significant decision regarding the Royal payroll. Following the ascension of his father, King Charles, to the throne in September 2022, Prince William inherited the prestigious title of Duke of Cornwall. This momentous event marked the continuation of a 700-year-old royal tradition, entrusting Prince William with the stewardship of the Duchy of Cornwall.
On July 24th, the Duchy of Cornwall released its integrated annual report, revealing a tough decision by Prince William that has left Queen Camilla heartbroken. The Prince of Wales decided to remove Queen Camilla’s sister, Annabelle Elliott, from the Royal payroll. Annabelle Elliott, a respected interior designer and sister of Queen Camilla, has been removed from her position, signaling a notable change in the Duchy's operations.
For the first time in nearly two decades, Annabelle Elliott has not been compensated for her services during the 2023-2024 period. This development is a direct result of Prince William's efforts to streamline and modernize the Duchy's financial practices. Sources confirmed to The Telegraph that Prince William's decision to discontinue employing Miss Elliott was not a reflection on her work. At 75, Miss Elliott has been paid several hundreds of thousands for her services over the years. She has worked on the Duchy's holiday cottage portfolio, decorating and updating its period properties across Cornwall, Wales, and the Isles of Scilly.
The decision to remove Annabelle Elliott has stirred significant controversy within Royal circles. Having been a trusted and integral part of the Duchy's operations, Elliott’s interior design expertise has greatly enhanced numerous properties. Her removal signifies a shift in how the Duchy of Cornwall is managed under Prince William's leadership. This move has been emotionally taxing for Queen Camilla, who shares a close bond with her sister. The sight of Queen Camilla in tears underscores the personal impact of these changes on her.
Annabelle Elliott’s contributions have been widely recognized and appreciated, with her expertise transforming many Duchy properties. Her removal raises questions about the future direction of the Duchy's property management and its overall operations. Prince William’s focus on modernizing the Duchy and aligning its financial practices with contemporary standards reflects a commitment to efficiency and transparency.
The latest financial accounts from the Duchy of Cornwall reveal that this decision is part of a broader effort to reassess and optimize expenditures. While difficult, these tough choices aim to secure the long-term sustainability and integrity of the Duchy. As the Royal family continues to adapt to changing times and responsibilities, decisions like this highlight the delicate balance between tradition and progress. Prince William's leadership represents a new era for the Duchy of Cornwall, one that prioritizes efficiency and accountability while navigating the complexities of family ties and Royal duties.
