Police Continue Searches at Andrew's Former Residence Amid Epstein Investigation Demands
Searches are expected to continue at Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's previous home as political pressure mounts for a comprehensive investigation into the former prince's connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office following the release of documents related to Epstein's activities.
Political Figures Demand Multiple Investigations
Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has formally written to six police forces requesting investigations into whether Andrew utilized taxpayer-funded jets and RAF bases during his tenure as trade envoy to meet with Epstein. According to The Sunday Telegraph, these communications specifically address potential misuse of public resources.
Conservative former security minister Tom Tugendhat has proposed establishing a special committee comprising MPs, peers, and retired judges to examine both Andrew's and Lord Peter Mandelson's associations with Epstein. This recommendation, reported by The Sun, suggests a parliamentary approach to the growing scandal.
Dai Davies, former head of Scotland Yard's Royal Protection Command, has advocated for a judge-led independent inquiry into Andrew's historical dealings with Epstein. Speaking to The Mirror, Davies emphasized the need for thorough examination of all relevant interactions.
Constitutional Implications and Line of Succession
Despite being stripped of his royal titles last year, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains eighth in line to the British throne. Removing him from the line of succession would require an Act of Parliament, a measure Sir Keir Starmer's Government is reportedly considering once police complete their current investigation.
The Liberal Democrats have expressed support for such legislative action, with party leader Sir Ed Davey describing the possibility of Andrew succeeding to the throne as "intolerable." Davey emphasized this scenario is "not as remote as some people think" and requires immediate attention.
Any modification to the line of succession would necessitate agreement from other Commonwealth realms that share the British monarch, including Australia, Canada, and Jamaica, adding complexity to potential constitutional changes.
Ongoing Police Investigation Details
Andrew spent eleven hours in police custody on Thursday, coinciding with his 66th birthday, before being released under investigation. The allegations center on whether he shared sensitive information with Epstein during his decade-long service as the UK's trade envoy.
Detectives have continued searching Andrew's former residence, Royal Lodge in Windsor, Berkshire, throughout Friday and Saturday. Thames Valley Police, leading the investigation, have yet to receive early investigative advice from the Crown Prosecution Service regarding the allegations.
Police have requested Andrew's former close protection officers to review whether any observations during their service might be relevant to the Epstein investigation. The Metropolitan Police are collaborating with American counterparts to determine if London airports facilitated human trafficking and sexual exploitation activities.
Royal Family Response and Public Appearances
Following Andrew's arrest, King Charles issued a statement affirming that "the law must take its course" and expressing full support for police investigations. The King attended London Fashion Week hours after his brother's arrest but declined to comment when questioned about the development.
The royal family has attempted to maintain normal public engagements, with the Prince and Princess of Wales making scheduled appearances. Princess Kate attended the England versus Ireland Six Nations rugby match at Twickenham, her first public appearance since Andrew's arrest, where she was photographed conversing with injured player Fin Baxter and RFU president Deborah Griffin.
Historical Context and Previous Allegations
Andrew stepped down from public duties in 2019 following his controversial BBC Newsnight interview addressing his friendship with Epstein. This action removed him from serving as an active counsellor of state, though he remains eligible for the role due to his position in the line of succession.
Virginia Giuffre, Andrew's primary accuser, has alleged she participated in sexual activities with him during gatherings involving underage girls on Epstein's Caribbean island, Little St James. Andrew has consistently denied all allegations against him, though he has not directly addressed the most recent claims.
Scotland Yard previously investigated whether Andrew's protection officers ignored his visits to Epstein's island, though no wrongdoing by officers has been identified. The Metropolitan Police confirmed no new reports of sexual offences have emerged since the release of Epstein-related documents by the US Department of Justice.
Parliamentary Considerations and Governance Review
An influential group of MPs is preparing to meet and discuss launching a parliamentary investigation into the UK trade envoy system. Any inquiry would initially focus on broader governance issues and systemic improvements, avoiding specific commentary on Andrew until criminal proceedings conclude to prevent prejudicing ongoing investigations.
Lord Mandelson, whose two properties have also been searched by police, was observed leaving his north London residence on Saturday. The former business secretary smiled at a taxi driver while carrying a tote bag, passing a small group of photographers without comment.
