Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is expected to retain his position as eighth in line to the throne for at least another year, despite a widening police investigation into his conduct. The former prince, 66, faces a probe by Thames Valley Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office over his role as a UK special envoy for trade.
The Metropolitan Police is also collaborating with US authorities to investigate whether London airports were used to traffic girls on Jeffrey Epstein's private jet. Andrew's former close protection officers are being questioned as part of the inquiry. He has denied any wrongdoing.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Buckingham Palace have indicated support for removing Andrew from the line of succession, but any change would require an Act of Parliament and the consent of all Commonwealth realms where Charles III is King. Canada, Australia and New Zealand have reportedly agreed, but the issue could spark wider debates in countries like Jamaica, which has expressed a desire to become a republic.
Palace sources have suggested the King would not oppose a government move to remove Andrew from the line of succession. However, they have avoided commenting on whether his daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, and their children would also be affected. Eugenie recently announced she is expecting her third child, who will be 15th in line.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard said it was “absolutely” the “right” thing to remove Andrew from the line of succession, regardless of the outcome of the police investigation. The last amendment to the succession rules was in 2013, ending male primogeniture before the birth of Prince George.
