A senior Conservative MP has called for a possible investigation into Prince Andrew’s infidelity following his arrest over his alleged links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, as the UK government indicated it was considering removing him from the royal line of succession.Former Security Minister Tom Tugendhat urged Parliament to set up a special committee including lawmakers, civilians and retired judges to examine Andrew’s relationship with Epstein and assess whether national security had been compromised.“This case raises urgent questions about foreign influence and national security,” Tugendhat said, adding that Parliament must determine whether current treason laws are sufficient if serious wrongdoing is proven.Andrew, 66, was arrested last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office and questioned by police for several hours over allegations he shared sensitive information with Epstein during his time as a UK trade envoy. Police have continued searches at his former residence, Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, as part of the ongoing investigation. He has denied any wrongdoing.The controversy has also attracted Peter Mandelson, the former UK ambassador to the US, who is accused of leaking secret government documents to Epstein between 2009 and 2010.
Mandelson has denied the allegations and has not been arrested, although he is said to be under investigation for possible misconduct in public office.Education Minister Bridget Phillipson said the government was “not ruling anything out” in terms of further action, including a judge-led investigation, but stressed that authorities must allow police to complete their investigations.The government is also keeping open the option of introducing legislation to remove Andrew from the royal line of succession, a move that would require parliamentary approval and the formal approval of King Charles III.Andrew currently remains eighth in line to the throne despite stepping back from royal duties. In a statement after his brother’s arrest, King Charles said that “the law must take its course” and pledged full cooperation with investigators.The escalating crisis has sparked cross-party calls for accountability, with lawmakers warning that the outcome could have major implications for public confidence in British institutions and the future of the monarchy.
