The government is expected to consider legislation to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession once any police investigation has concluded, it has been reported. The move follows his arrest and questioning on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Andrew remains eighth in line to the throne, despite relinquishing his royal titles last year amid revelations about his links to Jeffrey Epstein. As a result, he still holds the position of counsellor of state, though in practice only working royals are used for such duties.
Removing him from the succession would require an act of parliament and consultation with other Commonwealth realms. Politicians from several parties have called for action, including Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, who said parliament would need to consider the issue at the appropriate time.
Conservative MP Andrew Bowie stated that if Andrew is found guilty, parliament would be within its rights to act, but cautioned that he has not yet been charged. Labour MP Rachael Maskell expressed confidence that legislation could be passed to remove his succession rights and titles.
SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn also urged steps to eliminate any risk of Andrew becoming head of state, while Labour MP Richard Burgon called for an independent inquiry into the royal family's knowledge of Andrew's ties to Epstein. Green Party leader Zack Polanski suggested the case could hasten a national debate on abolishing the monarchy.
