Epstein Files Shatter Royal Deference: A Constitutional Reckoning
The stripping of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's royal titles in October was portrayed as a definitive conclusion—a disgraced figure severed from the monarchy to preserve its integrity. However, the recent disclosure of Jeffrey Epstein's files paints a starkly different picture, revealing connections that extend far beyond mere poor judgment.
Beyond Gossip: The Urgent Need for Accountability
This situation has transcended salacious gossip or constitutional formalities. It now centres on delivering genuine accountability to victims of sexual abuse. Despite Mr Mountbatten-Windsor's persistent claims of innocence, his refusal to cooperate with investigators raises serious questions. While the US Congress actively pursues Epstein's network, British parliamentarians continue to avoid direct scrutiny, creating an increasingly untenable position.
Revealing Documents: A Pattern of Entitlement
The details emerging from these files are profoundly disturbing. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor engaged with Epstein's offer of a "friend" described as "26, Russian, beautiful, trustworthy," despite Epstein's conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor. Photographs show him on all fours, looming over a woman lying on the floor. Emails suggest he proposed Buckingham Palace as a discreet meeting location with Epstein and sought advice on circumventing personal investment restrictions. Furthermore, as UK trade envoy, he apparently lobbied foreign governments on Epstein's behalf.
His assertion that he severed ties with Epstein in December 2010 has been contradicted by fresh emails indicating continued warm exchanges. This confidence in asserting provable falsehoods suggests a belief in untouchability. The allegation of sexual assault against Virginia Giuffre when she was 17 was resolved through a reported £12 million settlement without admission of guilt. Now, a second alleged victim has told the BBC she was flown to Britain by Epstein to provide sexual services to Mr Mountbatten-Windsor at Royal Lodge in 2010. Legal records also mention an exotic dancer who claims she was pressured into sex acts involving both men in 2006.
Political Implications: Elite Impunity Exposed
These files expose an influential elite that operated with a sense of being above the law, making this a significant political issue. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor should testify before the House of Representatives oversight committee. His apparent closeness to Epstein after the financier's conviction could help identify accomplices and institutional failures. One must ask: does he not wish to assist Epstein's victims?
Monarchical Accountability: A System in Need of Reform
Public discontent with the monarchy is growing, highlighting a political order requiring radical reconstruction alongside electoral and House of Lords reforms. It seems absurd for the prime minister to support Mr Mountbatten-Windsor giving evidence to US lawmakers while avoiding similar scrutiny from MPs. The monarchy currently lacks accountability to parliament, with Commons rules prohibiting "reflections" on royals, stifling meaningful debate. In 2011, David Cameron abolished MPs' oldest check on royal power—control of finances—replacing it with an automatic transfer of crown estate revenues.
Conclusion: Ending Deference, Demanding Transparency
Defenders of the royal family often claim it serves as the nation's moral anchor, a notion rarely supported by history. The Epstein files demonstrate where unchecked entitlement and privilege without responsibility can lead. Parliament has the power to reintroduce accountability and demand transparency in royal activities. It should not require Mr Mountbatten-Windsor's failings to recognise that deference is a choice, and impunity is its inevitable consequence.
