Britain’s royal household would not stand in the way of efforts to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession, sources say, as police continue searches at his former Windsor residence following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Police searches continue after arrest
Officers confirmed they were carrying out further searches at properties linked to Andrew in the Windsor area as part of an ongoing investigation. The former royal, widely known as Prince Andrew, was taken into custody earlier this week on suspicion of misconduct in public office, prompting an immediate political and constitutional debate over his remaining formal status within the monarchy.
Investigators are understood to be examining documents and electronic material as they seek to establish whether any public authority was improperly used or influenced during his time as a working royal.
Palace signals neutrality on succession change
Senior figures close to British Royal Family indicated that the Palace would not oppose parliamentary or governmental moves to formally exclude Andrew from the order of succession. While such a step would require legislative action, the stance marks a notable shift in tone, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations and the growing pressure on institutions to demonstrate accountability.
Andrew has already been stripped of official duties and patronages in recent years, but he technically remains in the line of succession — a status that has become increasingly controversial amid repeated scandals.
Political pressure builds
Several MPs across party lines called for swift action, arguing that anyone under active criminal investigation should not retain a constitutional role, however symbolic. Legal experts noted that removing an individual from the succession would be rare but not unprecedented, requiring cooperation between the UK government and Commonwealth realms where the monarch is head of state.
Public reaction has been sharp, with renewed scrutiny of how the monarchy handles allegations involving senior figures and whether existing safeguards are sufficient.
Andrew denies wrongdoing
Through representatives, Andrew has denied any criminal conduct and said he intends to cooperate fully with authorities. His legal team stressed that an arrest does not amount to a charge and urged against drawing premature conclusions.
Nevertheless, the case has intensified debate about transparency, privilege, and the boundaries between public office and private influence.
A defining test for the monarchy
The unfolding investigation presents another major challenge for Britain’s royal institution, already navigating a period of transition and heightened public expectations. Whether lawmakers move to formally alter the succession now appears less a question of Palace resistance than of political will.
For many observers, the episode underscores a broader shift: even the most established institutions are no longer insulated from legal scrutiny — and public tolerance for ambiguity is rapidly diminishing.
Newshub Editorial in Europe – 22 February 2026
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