Police Searches Persist at Andrew's Former Windsor Home Amid Inquiry Speculation
Police searches at the former residence of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on the Windsor estate extended into Sunday, with authorities anticipating completion by Monday. The ongoing investigation coincides with mounting political pressure for a comprehensive inquiry into the former prince's associations with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Government Minister Leaves Door Open for Judge-Led Inquiry
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, representing the government, refrained from dismissing the possibility of a judge-led inquiry but emphasized the necessity of allowing the current police investigation to proceed unimpeded. "We are not ruling anything out around this," Phillipson stated during an interview on Sky News. "We have a live police investigation under way, so we'll not be setting out further steps until the police have been able to do their work." She underscored the importance of providing law enforcement with the time and space to conduct a thorough examination, aligning with King Charles's assertion that no one is above the law.
Calls for Removal from Royal Succession Intensify
Amid the escalating scandal, numerous public figures and political parties have advocated for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's removal from the line of succession. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey described the prospect of his ascension to the throne as "intolerable," while Reform UK has also expressed support for such measures. Royal sources indicate that King Charles would not obstruct parliamentary action aimed at ensuring the former prince never assumes the throne.
Senior MP Proposes Treason Investigation
Tom Tugendhat, a senior Conservative MP and former security minister, has called for a parliamentary treason investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's connections with Epstein. Tugendhat argued that the affair raises critical questions about foreign influence and national security, suggesting that a special committee comprising MPs, peers, and retired judges be established to examine the matter. "This goes beyond what a court could reasonably consider," he asserted, highlighting potential implications for the country's treason laws.
Wider Implications for the Monarchy and Commonwealth
Royal author Andrew Morton noted that the current crisis could surpass historical precedents, such as the abdication of Edward VIII in 1936, due to its prolonged and unresolved nature. "This crisis, I think, outdoes the lot because there is no end in sight," Morton remarked, predicting that the situation may persist for years. The scandal's ramifications extend to the institution of the monarchy and the Commonwealth, with widespread agreement on its far-reaching consequences.
Police Extend Investigation to Former Protection Officers
In a related development, the Metropolitan Police has initiated contact with officers who previously served as protection details for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, urging them to disclose any relevant information. Dai Davies, a former head of royal protection, expressed confidence that these officers possess valuable insights, given their presence at various residences linked to the former prince. Davies advocated for a judge-led inquiry to uncover the full truth, stating, "For too long the establishment has taken us, the public, for fools."
Royal Family Continues Duties Amidst Turmoil
While Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has maintained his innocence regarding the Epstein allegations, he has not directly addressed the recent accusations. Following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office, the wider royal family has proceeded with their official engagements. Princess Anne visited a crisp factory in Sheffield, and the Princess of Wales attended a rugby match at Twickenham, demonstrating a commitment to normalcy amidst the ongoing investigations.
