The royal family has been making headlines lately regularly. There has been a great deal to discuss, from illnesses to disputes within the family.
Something else has been in the news recently that has elevated the royal family to prominence. Prince William made the choice to have Annabelle Elliott, the sister of Queen Camilla, taken off the payroll. Under King Charles’ supervision, she has been the estate’s interior designer since 2005.
There have been some adjustments as William begins to run the estate in his unique way. Elliott, who is 75 years old, was removed, which is just one of the changes, but a big one. She was not paid in 2023 or 2024, according to the records, indicating that her 20 years of work had ended.
According to a statement: “During the period to 8th September 2022 the Duchy paid Mrs Annabel Elliot, the 24th Duke of Cornwall’s sister-in-law, in the normal course of business and on an arm’s length basis £19,625 (or $25,091.25) for fees and commission and £12,316 ($15746.44) for the purchase of furniture, furnishings and retail stock for the Duchy of Cornwall Holiday accommodation, Duchy offices and Duchy Nursery. At 31st March 2024 there was £nil (2023: £nil) remaining payable to Mrs Elliot in respect of these [sic].”
The Duke of Cornwall and his family’s private affairs are taken care of by that private estate, the Duchy, along with certain governmental duties. It was founded in 1337 and is regulated by particular charters.
The current Duke of Cornwall, Prince William, is not granted access to the estate’s funds even though he is involved in its management. Every year, he also pays income tax on the profits made by the estate.
It appears like everyone has a firm view now that Prince William has decided to fire Annabelle from the company. While some are relieved that he took the stand, others were unaware that she was employed in the first place.