The UK government considered introducing a law to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the royal line of succession. This decision followed his recent arrest and ongoing police investigation into misconduct allegations.
Government’s Position
Luke Pollard, the Defence Minister, told the BBC that the move represented the right thing to do. He explained that it would prevent Mountbatten-Windsor from ever becoming King, regardless of the police outcome.
Additionally, Pollard noted the government worked with Buckingham Palace to ensure cross-party support after the investigation concluded.
Public and Political Support
A YouGov poll revealed that 82 percent of Britons supported removing Mountbatten-Windsor from the succession line. Stephen Flynn, the SNP Westminster leader, stated his party would back the legislation if required..Meanwhile, Rachael Maskell, a Labour MP, expressed support for stripping him from both the succession and counsellor of state roles.
Sir Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader, emphasized that police needed space to investigate without interference. However he added Parliament would address the issue at the appropriate time. Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative Party leader, urged everyone in public life to allow the police probe to proceed.
Legal Hurdles
The process required an act of Parliament, approval from MPs and peers, and royal assent from King Charles III. Furthermore, 14 Commonwealth countries, including Canada and Australia, needed to agree. This mirrored the 2013 Succession to the Crown Act.
Background of Allegations
Mountbatten-Windsor, King Charles III’s brother, faced arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Police searched his former Windsor home and contacted his protection officers over human trafficking claims.
He denied any wrongdoing, but authorities stripped his titles in October 2025 due to ties with Jeffrey Epstein. Mountbatten-Windsor remained eighth in line to the throne. The investigation continued, with searches in Berkshire ongoing.
