Feb 23, 2026, 1:47 p.mFeb 23, 2026, 1:47 p.m
The Australian government is backing a possible law to exclude former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession.
The broadcaster Sky News and the PA news agency quote from a corresponding letter from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Andrew, the younger brother of King Charles III, is being investigated in Great Britain in connection with the scandal involving sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.image: keystone
He confirmed that his government would agree to any proposal to remove him (Andrew) from the line of succession, Albanese wrote. Australia is one of the 15 Commonwealth states that would have to agree to a corresponding law because the recognition of Charles III. (77) as king, her succession to the throne would also be affected. Charles’ son William (43) is in first place in the line of succession, followed by his son Prince George (12) – Andrew (66) is in eighth place.
Investigations in Great Britain
Andrew was arrested by Thames Valley Police last week. The former prince is accused of misconduct in public office. He is said to have passed on information to US financier Epstein in his previous role as trade representative. Andrew has not yet commented on this. Charles III had announced that the law had to take its course.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is involved in the Epstein case.Image: EPA
These are serious allegations that are taken seriously in Australia, wrote Albanese. The arrest also caused a stir in Australia, with some media reporting with live tickers. The most famous Epstein victim, Virginia Giuffre, who also made allegations of abuse against Andrew, lived in Australia until her death last April. Andrew had always denied the allegations. They are not yet part of the investigation.
In Great Britain, the government is reportedly considering passing a law to change the line of succession – but possibly only after the police investigation has been completed. In Great Britain, laws are passed in the upper and lower houses and finally signed by the monarch.
Andrew had already lost his titles and honors, including Duke of York, because of his involvement in the scandal. The ex-prince had always rejected previous allegations of alleged sexual crimes. (sda/dpa)