Royal Family 'May Have Set Up War Room' As They Fear Andrew Could Expose Secrets
Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner has claimed that the Royal Family may have established a 'war room' at Windsor Castle following the arrest of Prince Andrew on suspicion of misconduct. According to Pelham Turner, a former royal photographer, this move comes amid growing fears that the prince, dubbed a 'blabbermouth' by his police protection detail, could reveal sensitive secrets about the monarchy in a bid to mitigate potential legal consequences.
Arrest Sparks Royal Crisis
Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on Thursday morning by Thames Valley Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office, related to his tenure as a UK trade envoy from 2001 to 2011. He has since been released under investigation, with police searches in Norfolk concluded and ongoing in Berkshire. The arrest sent shockwaves through the Royal Family, with Pelham Turner describing it as 'the biggest crisis facing Buckingham Palace and the Royal Family'.
Pelham Turner revealed that neither King Charles nor Prince William were informed beforehand about the arrest, leaving the monarchy scrambling to respond. 'None of the Royal Family, including King Charles and Prince William, were informed beforehand that the arrest was going to take place,' he stated exclusively. This lack of warning has reportedly heightened tensions behind the scenes.
Royal Response and Distancing
In the wake of the arrest, King Charles issued a statement expressing 'deepest concern' and pledging his 'full and wholehearted support and co-operation' with the police investigation. This move is seen as an effort to create distance between the monarchy and the disgraced prince, with Pelham Turner observing it as 'the Royal Family showing the iron fist in the velvet glove'.
The royal commentator suggested that both Charles and William reject any 'predetermined involvement' in how the arrest unfolded, indicating a desire to maintain the monarchy's integrity amidst the scandal. Reports indicate that King Charles was 'speedily rushed by global media with outriders clearing the way' during interviews outside Buckingham Palace, highlighting the intense media scrutiny.
Fears of Secret Revelations
Pelham Turner elaborated on the Royal Family's concerns, noting that 'nerves will be on frantic keel behind the scenes with the Royal Family concerned about what explosive details may come out'. He speculated that a war room may have been set up at Windsor, bringing in top current and former royal consultants for advice. This is driven by anxiety that Andrew, known for his loose tongue, might 'reveal secrets about the Firm' to alleviate potential sentencing in court.
Dr Tom Frost, discussing the arrest with People magazine, explained that being placed under arrest allows police to question Andrew under caution and search his properties for evidence. This legal process adds to the pressure on the prince, potentially increasing the risk of disclosures.
Background and Investigation
Andrew has been embroiled in controversy for over a decade, but this arrest marks a significant escalation. The investigation was reportedly prompted by pressure from the anti-monarchist group Republican, who insisted police look into the matter. Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk and his subsequent release, with no further comment as searches continue.
As the Royal Family navigates this crisis, the establishment of a war room underscores their proactive approach to managing fallout and protecting the monarchy's reputation. With Andrew's history and the ongoing police investigation, the situation remains fluid, with potential for further revelations that could impact the royal institution.
