King Charles has reportedly granted police investigating his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, access to all files and records held at Buckingham Palace. This decision follows concerns among royal staff about a potential cover-up regarding Andrew’s behavior during his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Investigators will have the opportunity to examine relevant documents, emails, and government files linked to Andrew’s previous role as a trade envoy, as reported by The Observer.
The investigation intensified after Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office on March 14, 2024, coinciding with his 66th birthday. He was questioned for approximately 11 hours at Aylsham police station before being released under investigation. As authorities delve deeper into Andrew’s ties with Epstein, the royal family has expressed its commitment to cooperate fully. A royal source stated, “We have said we will cooperate fully and wholeheartedly.”
While Buckingham Palace has not confirmed whether detectives will search its premises, the palace’s cooperation suggests a significant step towards transparency. Concerns persist that senior palace staff may have been aware of Andrew’s actions and did not disclose this information. This situation reportedly unfolded prior to the involvement of King Charles or Prince William in decision-making processes.
In a written statement, King Charles expressed his support for the ongoing investigation, emphasizing the importance of due process: “What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”
Thames Valley Police have indicated that searches will continue at Andrew’s former residence, Royal Lodge, next week. Detectives now have the necessary permission to “follow the evidence,” as stated in reports. The Metropolitan Police has also requested that royal protection officers report any suspected misconduct linked to Andrew.
Former royal protection officer Paul Page revealed that more than 40 women visited Buckingham Palace during Andrew’s tenure there between 1998 and 2004. He suggested that a breach of protocol occurred when the names of these visitors were not recorded in the official guest logs. Page was previously convicted in 2009 for a £3 million investment fraud and claimed that Andrew had hosted multiple women, including Ghislaine Maxwell, at the palace.
Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years in prison in June 2022 for her role in conspiring with Epstein in child sex trafficking. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing despite evidence suggesting he maintained a close relationship with Epstein long after publicly severing ties.
Police confirmed they are investigating allegations that a woman was trafficked to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew. There are also claims that Andrew shared sensitive information with Epstein during his time as trade envoy, raising further questions about his conduct.
In light of the recent arrest, there have been increasing calls for Andrew to be removed from the line of succession. Reports indicate that Downing Street is considering drafting legislation to formally exclude him from eighth in line to the throne once the investigation concludes. Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary, did not dismiss the idea of a judge-led inquiry post-investigation but noted that it remains premature. She stated on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips on Sky, “They need to have the time and space to do so, as the King set out, no one is above the law.”
The unfolding investigation not only impacts the royal family but also raises broader questions about accountability and transparency within the institution. As the situation develops, all eyes will remain on Buckingham Palace and the implications for the monarchy’s future.
