Andrew's Security Team Seen Stocking Up on Lager and Noodles After Police Release
Security officers for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor have been observed purchasing essential supplies, including Madri beer and pot noodles, following his release from police custody. The former prince, aged 66, was arrested on Thursday morning at his Wood Farm residence in Sandringham on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was detained for approximately 11 hours before being released pending further investigation later that evening.
Supermarket Run for Essentials
On Saturday morning, the same two security officers who drove Andrew back to Sandringham after his arrest were seen carrying out a supermarket run in King's Lynn, Norfolk. They appeared to be carrying Sainsbury's and Tesco bags containing two boxes of beer and various groceries. Among the items were Soba Chilli Cup Noodles, priced around £2, and a large pack of Madri Excepcional Premium Lager Beer, which retails for £14.75 at Tesco. Andrew remains holed up at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate while his security team handles errands.
Ongoing Police Raids and Investigation
Meanwhile, police raids continue at Andrew's former home, Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park. A convoy of unmarked police vehicles arrived at the gates on Saturday, marking the third day of searches as officers gather potential evidence. On Friday, over 20 vehicles were spotted at the property, though it is unclear if all were connected to the investigation. Thames Valley Police are leading the inquiry into allegations that Andrew shared sensitive information during his tenure as a trade envoy, with accusations stemming from his links to Jeffrey Epstein.
Mounting Pressure to Remove Andrew from Royal Succession
Pressure is intensifying for Andrew to be removed from the line of royal succession. Labour MP Luke Pollard has advocated for legislation to strip him of his succession rights, stating it is "the right thing to do" given he is only a heartbeat away from the throne as eighth in line. Pollard emphasized that this should occur once the police investigation concludes, hoping for cross-party support. An Act of Parliament would be required, along with backing from 14 Commonwealth countries where the King is Head of State, such as New Zealand, Canada, and Australia.
Government and Political Responses
Chief Secretary to the Treasury James Murray confirmed the government is "considering any further steps that might be required" and is not ruling anything out. Liberal Democrat spokeswoman Layla Moran attempted to introduce a backbench bill to remove Andrew from succession, arguing that "if you can't be a prince then you shouldn't be king." She called for an independent public inquiry into the Epstein files, warning that Andrew becoming king could lead to public protests and endanger the monarchy. However, some MPs believe formal legislation is unnecessary due to Andrew's distant position in the line of succession.
Background and Context
Andrew was stripped of his titles by King Charles last October over his ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein but remains in the line of succession. He stepped down from public duties in 2019 following a controversial Newsnight interview. The recent release of documents and photographs from the Epstein estate has reignited allegations, prompting the current police investigation. Thames Valley Police have yet to receive early investigative advice from the Crown Prosecution Service regarding the misconduct allegations.
