Prince Andrew has faced sharp criticism from American politicians after failing to respond to a formal request to testify about his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Congressional Demand Meets Royal Silence
The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform had issued a formal request for the Duke of York to participate in a transcribed interview regarding his longstanding friendship with the disgraced financier. A letter signed by 16 congress members was delivered earlier this month, setting a response deadline of November 20.
Two committee members, Democrats Ranking member Robert Garcia and Congressman Suhas Subramanyam, have confirmed that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor failed to meet this deadline. The lawmakers stated that his silence speaks volumes about his unwillingness to cooperate with their investigation into Epstein's crimes.
Limited Legal Reach
Despite the formal request, the congressional committee faces significant limitations in its authority. The panel cannot compel non-US citizens or foreign nationals outside American borders to testify, meaning Andrew was under no legal obligation to respond to their demand.
In a strongly worded statement, the politicians declared: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's silence in the face of the Oversight Democrat's demand for testimony speaks volumes. The documents we've reviewed, along with public records and Virginia Roberts Giuffre's testimony, raise serious questions he must answer, yet he continues to hide.
Mounting Consequences
The pressure on Andrew has intensified significantly in recent months. King Charles dramatically stripped his brother of all royal and military titles in October, effectively removing him from official royal duties. The former prince has also been ordered to vacate his 30-room Royal Lodge mansion as the monarchy distances itself from the ongoing scandal.
The situation worsened with the release of a posthumous memoir by Virginia Giuffre, who has consistently accused Andrew of sexual misconduct when she was 17 years old. Days before the book's publication, Andrew relinquished his right to use his Duke of York title.
Throughout the escalating controversy, Andrew has vehemently denied all allegations made against him. However, the congressional committee remains determined to continue its investigation, stating: Our work will move forward with or without him, and we will hold anyone who was involved in these crimes accountable, no matter their wealth, status, or political party. We will get justice for the survivors.
The developments come as former President Donald Trump finally signed legislation allowing the full release of Epstein files, following months of resistance and a overwhelming 427-1 House vote supporting disclosure.
