Windfarm windfall set to spark debate about funding of UK monarchy

Demand for leases of land for renewable energy projects is set to generate hundreds of millions for the crown estate

The royal family stands to benefit from a huge windfall from the boom in offshore energy, potentially sparking a debate about funding the monarchy.

The Treasury has confirmed that an official review of the sovereign grant, which stands at 86.3m a year, is ongoing and is expected to come into effect from April next year. Officials say they want to ensure the funding is at appropriate" levels.