Police activity continued Friday at the former residence of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as political leaders signaled that his position in the royal line of succession could be in jeopardy following his arrest.
According to Fox News, authorities spent the day searching the property while the British government confirmed it is reviewing whether new legislation may be needed to remove him from the succession.
Despite losing his princely title in October and now facing a criminal investigation, Andrew remains eighth in line to the throne, a status that can only be changed through an act of Parliament.
“The government is considering any further steps that might be required, and we’re not ruling anything out,” said Chief Secretary to the Treasury James Murray.
The last royal to be formally removed from the succession was King Edward VIII after his 1936 abdication, when the law was amended to exclude him and his descendants.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard said ministers and Buckingham Palace are working together to ensure Andrew is not “potentially being a heartbeat away from the throne.”
He added that any action would likely wait until the police investigation concludes but expressed hope it would receive “cross-party support.”
Andrew was arrested on Thursday morning on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
In a statement issued through Buckingham Palace, King Charles III said he had learned of the arrest “with the deepest concern” and emphasized that authorities would have the royal family’s “full and wholehearted support and co-operation.”
“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course,” the king said, adding that he would not comment further while the process is ongoing.
Andrew has faced years of public scrutiny over his association with Jeffrey Epstein and allegations from Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who has claimed he had sex with her when she was 17. He has repeatedly denied all allegations.
In October 2025, Andrew announced he would “no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me,” and Buckingham Palace later confirmed he would be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor.
The Crown Prosecution Service has indicated that misconduct in public office carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.
