Prince William and Princess Kate have broken with royal tradition by significantly reducing transparency around household staff details in the latest annual finance report.
The Prince of Wales has chosen to end the level of disclosure previously maintained by King Charles, who included detailed breakdowns of royal employees, including housekeepers, chefs, butlers and gardeners.
The report, covering April 2024 to March 2025, now reveals only the total number of staff employed by William's household - 68 people, an increase of two from the previous year. This marks a notable departure from his father's approach to public accountability.
The 43-year-old prince has also opted not to disclose his personal tax bill, though it is known he pays the highest rate of income tax.
Princess Kate and Prince William break from tradition as Adelaide Cottage staff kept under wraps.
Getty
The changes represent a stark contrast to previous royal financial reporting standards.
Where King Charles's reports detailed specific roles within the royal household, William's approach provides minimal information beyond the total headcount.
The timing of these changes coincides with the family's move to Adelaide Cottage in Windsor, where they have significantly reduced their live-in staff arrangements.
The four-bedroom property's modest size compared to other royal residences has naturally limited the number of permanent household employees.
Princess Kate and Prince William moved to Adelaide Cottage three years ago.
GettyThe annual finance report, which also revealed an 11-day royal trip costing £400,535, now offers considerably less insight into the Wales household's operational structure.
The family's relocation to Adelaide Cottage has transformed their domestic arrangements.
The property, featuring a distinctive pastel pink exterior, underwent extensive refurbishment in 2015 and includes a study and master bedroom once adorned with golden dolphins and a ceiling rope from a 19th-century royal yacht.
Despite employing housekeepers and nannies who work in the home, William and Kate have embraced a more hands-on approach to parenting.
Princess Kate and Prince William moved their family to Adelaide Cottage in 2022.PALATEST ROYAL NEWS:
Prince William and Kate's three children attend Lambrook School near Adelaide Cottage.
PAThe couple regularly handle school runs for Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, though royal duties sometimes necessitate staff assistance.
The cottage grounds feature an immaculate lawn, providing privacy for the family.
The downsized living arrangement means fewer live-in staff compared to their previous residences, aligning with the couple's desire to provide their children with as normal an upbringing as possible.
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