The Liberal Democrats are exploring options to force a parliamentary debate on Prince Andrew's conduct, including using an opposition day debate, amid growing unease over royal transparency. The government has so far refused to allocate time in the House of Commons, arguing the royal family wishes parliament to focus on 'important issues'.
A Lib Dem source told the Guardian the party is 'exploring all options, including an opposition day debate, to ensure parliament can scrutinise this properly – from Prince Andrew’s residence at Royal Lodge to his dukedom'. They added that the first priority is 'proper transparency and accountability', calling for the crown estate and Prince Andrew to give evidence under oath in parliament.
The intervention signals a shift to frame the issue as one of public accountability rather than personal scandal. Party figures have privately suggested the episode highlights the need for 'modern standards of public scrutiny' across all publicly funded estates, including those managed by the crown estate.
Any Commons debate on the matter would be symbolically significant, breaking from decades of convention that MPs avoid direct criticism of the royal family. The rules of procedure, as outlined in Erskine May, restrict reflections on the conduct of the sovereign, heir to the throne, or other royal family members unless based on a substantive motion.
Prince Andrew, 65, announced last week he would no longer use his titles and honours, following the fallout over his links to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Reports indicate he is in advanced talks with the king’s representatives over moving out of Royal Lodge, despite his lease running until 2078. Calls have also been made for his Duke of York title to be officially removed, which would require legislation.
