Ex-Prince Andrew ‘not as intelligent or articulate’ as other royals

Former Prince Andrew reportedly stood out from other senior royals but not for any good reason, a royal expert has claimed.

During his encounters with the royal family, royal commentator Robert Hardman claimed that the former Duke of York was “not as intelligent or as articulate” as the rest.

Speaking about his experiences covering royal tours and events, Hardman said figures such as Prince Philip, King Charles and Princess Anne were sharp and engaging.

He also noted that future king, Prince William, and his younger brother, Prince Harry, could easily charm a room.

However, as for Andrew, the expert noted that he often made awkward remarks during his time as trade envoy and sometimes “put his foot in it” during public appearances.

“Philip was fascinating and sharp — you really had to keep your wits about you. Ditto Charles. The Princess Royal is fabulous — I've followed her around and could barely keep up,” he told Sunday Telegraph.

“William and Harry can effortlessly work a room, charming everyone and putting them at ease,” the author continued.

“But Andrew just isn’t as intelligent or as articulate as the others. As trade envoy, he was forever saying disobliging things and putting his foot in it.

“He’d be at a telecoms conference and suddenly come out with the line, ‘What is Orange?’”