United Kingdom government officials are reportedly considering introducing legislation to remove Prince Andrew (Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor) from the royal line of succession.
According to comments made to the BBC, Defence Minister Luke Pollard described the proposed move as “the right thing to do,” regardless of the outcome of the ongoing police investigation.
Andrew, the brother of King Charles III, is currently eighth in line to the throne, despite having been stripped of his royal titles, including “prince,” last October amid sustained pressure over his past associations with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Investigation and Political Reaction
On Thursday evening, Andrew was released under investigation 11 hours after being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He has consistently and strongly denied any wrongdoing.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions, Pollard confirmed that the government had “absolutely” been working with Buckingham Palace on plans aimed at preventing Andrew from being “potentially just one step away from the throne.”
He added that the proposal could gain cross-party support but stressed that it would be appropriate to proceed only after the police investigation concludes.
Police Activity at Royal Lodge
On Friday, unmarked police cars and vans were seen entering and leaving Royal Lodge, the 30-room Windsor property where Andrew has lived for many years. At one point, more than 20 vehicles were reportedly parked on the grounds, though it remains unclear how many were directly linked to the investigation.
The potential legislative move would mark a significant constitutional step, as altering the royal line of succession requires parliamentary approval.
