The government is expected to consider legislation to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession once any police investigation concludes, sources have indicated. The former prince, who remains eighth in line to the throne, was arrested and questioned on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Despite relinquishing his royal titles in October, Andrew retains his place in the succession and remains a counsellor of state, though in practice only working royals serve in that capacity. Removing him would require an act of parliament and consultation with other Commonwealth realms that share the monarchy.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey said: “The most important thing right now is that the police be allowed to get on with their job. But clearly this is an issue that parliament is going to have to consider when the time is right.” Conservative shadow Scotland secretary Andrew Bowie echoed this, stating that if Andrew is found guilty, parliament would be “well within its rights” to act.
Labour MP Rachael Maskell said it seemed likely parliament would need to act, adding: “From the evidence already held in the public domain, it is clear that his position as a counsellor of state and with succession rights are removed.” SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn also called for action to prevent any risk of Andrew becoming head of state.
Some politicians, including Labour MP Richard Burgon, have called for a broader debate on the monarchy, while Green party co-leader Zack Polanski suggested the case could hasten a national conversation about abolition.
