The government has indicated it will consider legislation to remove the Duke of York from the line of succession once any police investigation into his conduct has concluded. 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 in October amid renewed scrutiny of his links to Jeffrey Epstein. His position means he is still a counsellor of state, though in practice only working royals are called upon to deputise for the monarch.
Removing him from the succession would require an act of parliament and consultation with other Commonwealth realms. Sources say firm plans exist for this to proceed after the investigation is complete.
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 MP Andrew Bowie echoed the sentiment, 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, while SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn also called for action to remove any risk of Andrew becoming head of state. Green Party co-leader Zack Polanski suggested the case could hasten a national debate on the monarchy.
