Starmer Insists on Legal Equality Amid Epstein Inquiry
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has publicly declared that nobody is above the law and urged Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to engage with authorities in both the United Kingdom and the United States concerning his associations with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The prime minister stressed that any individual possessing relevant information has a duty to come forward, regardless of their status or position.
Police Investigations Expand Across Multiple Forces
Several police departments are currently evaluating allegations arising from documents released by the US Department of Justice related to Epstein's activities. When questioned about whether Andrew should voluntarily approach British police, Starmer responded, "I think that's a matter for the police. They will conduct their own investigations." However, he reinforced the fundamental principle of equality under the law, stating it must be applied universally.
Starmer also reiterated his previous stance that Andrew should provide testimony before the US Congress. "Anybody who has any information should testify," he asserted. "So whether it's Andrew or anybody else, anybody who has got relevant information should come forward to whatever the relevant body is." The prime minister emphasized this applies particularly to cases involving violence against women and girls, where he believes there is a moral obligation to cooperate.
Parliamentary Debate and Royal Protection Scrutiny
Starmer added that he would not obstruct parliamentary discussions if MPs wished to debate Andrew's connections to Epstein. This follows confirmation from the Metropolitan Police that they are examining claims that members of Andrew's royal protection team willfully ignored his visits to Epstein's private island, Little St James, in the US Virgin Islands. A protection officer told LBC that while they may not have witnessed criminal acts directly, there was concern about deliberate negligence.
Airport Flights Under Review
Essex Police announced they are assessing information regarding private flights to and from Stansted Airport, linked to documents released on January 30. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown alleged these files reveal in graphic detail how Epstein utilized the airport to transport girls from Latvia, Lithuania, and Russia. Stansted Airport clarified it does not manage passenger arrangements on private aircraft.
Additional police forces are involved:
- Norfolk Police are reviewing documents but have not yet received specific allegations.
- West Midlands Police are evaluating information about flights through Birmingham Airport.
- Bedfordshire Police are investigating flights associated with Luton Airport.
Earlier this month, Thames Valley Police confirmed they are assessing claims that Andrew shared confidential trade envoy reports with Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing regarding his Epstein links but has not addressed the latest allegations directly.
