Former Prince Andrew, arrested over Epstein documents, faces public pressure to be removed from the British line of succession.
Arrest and Public Opinion
Former Prince Andrew was detained on February 19 in connection with information found in the pedophile Jeffrey Epstein’s files, concerning his actions while serving as a trade envoy. Allegations of abuse of his position have emerged. According to a CNN report referencing a YouGov poll, 82% of respondents expect Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to be removed from the line of succession. Only 6% held the opposite view, while 12% were undecided.
Removing a Royal from Succession
Although Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of many titles, including Duke, last October, he remains eighth in line to the throne. This could only change through a special act of Parliament. However, as reported by the University of London College, “this would be difficult because, under convention, any change to the line of succession would require the consent of 14 other countries where King Charles III is head of state,” affecting their lines of succession too.
Royal Duties and Current Status
Former Prince Andrew is a Counselor of State, who could step in for the monarch during illness or absence abroad. BBC journalists noted, however, that these duties are exclusively performed by members of the royal family, and Mountbatten-Windsor stepped back from them in 2019 following criticism of his ties to Epstein. By the end of October last year, Buckingham Palace announced the King’s brother would no longer live at Royal Lodge. “He was formally served notice to vacate the lease and move to alternative, private accommodation,” stated the Palace.
Additional Information
Further information on Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is available in the article: “Former Prince Andrew Released from Custody. ‘Looked Dazed’.”