A senior lawmaker in the United Kingdom is advocating for a parliamentary investigation into potential treason connected to former Prince Andrew and ex-ambassador Peter Mandelson due to their associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat has proposed the establishment of a special committee tasked with examining the nature of these relationships and assessing whether existing laws adequately protect national security and oversight of the royal family.
Tugendhat, who previously served as the security minister, expressed his concerns in an interview with The Sun, stating, “This affair raises urgent questions about foreign influence and national security.” He emphasized the need for clarity regarding what the Palace and government officials knew about the situation. He further remarked, “If the worst is proved, do we need to revisit treason laws written 700 years ago?”
The controversy has intensified following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on allegations that he shared sensitive documents with Epstein while acting as a UK trade envoy. King Charles III has publicly supported law enforcement efforts, asserting that “the law must take its course,” as Andrew faces serious legal repercussions that could lead to life imprisonment if convicted.
Mandelson, who served as the UK ambassador to the United States, was dismissed from his position in September 2025 over his connections to Epstein. Reports indicate that he allegedly provided the financier with confidential government documents during 2009 and 2010. As of now, Mandelson has not been arrested, but Tugendhat has voiced strong concerns, stating, “If these accusations are true, they expose something rotten at the top of the State.”
Both Andrew and Mandelson have denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein, whose actions have prompted scrutiny of high-profile figures. Tugendhat insists that regardless of the outcome, Parliament must affirm that the UK is committed to defending itself against all threats, including those originating from powerful circles.
In addition to the ongoing investigation, the British government is actively pursuing legislation aimed at permanently removing Andrew from the line of succession. This measure would prevent any possibility of Andrew assuming the throne, even though he currently stands eighth in line despite being stripped of his royal titles in October 2022. The legislative process would require an act of Parliament, followed by the approval of King Charles.
Historically, the last instance of someone being removed from the line of succession through parliamentary action occurred in 1936, when King Edward VIII abdicated to marry American divorcée Wallis Simpson. The current situation surrounding Andrew raises significant questions about the monarchy’s future and accountability, further complicating an already tumultuous chapter in British history.
