The UK government is considering legislation that could formally remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the royal line of succession, a move that would mark one of the most significant constitutional interventions involving the monarchy in modern times.
Pressure builds for decisive action
According to senior political sources, ministers are reviewing legal pathways that would allow Parliament to exclude Andrew from succession rights altogether, rather than relying on informal arrangements that already keep him away from public duties.
While Andrew currently holds no official royal role, he technically remains in the line of succession — a status that critics argue undermines public confidence in the institution. Calls for his formal removal have intensified amid renewed scrutiny of his past associations and the broader reputational impact on the monarchy.
Government officials stress that no final decision has been taken, but confirm that constitutional advisers are examining precedents and potential legislative mechanisms.
A sensitive constitutional process
Any change to the line of succession would require primary legislation and, potentially, coordination with other Commonwealth realms that recognise the British monarch as head of state.
Legal experts note that such a move would be rare but not unprecedented in principle. Parliament has previously altered succession rules, most recently in 2013, when reforms ended male-preference primogeniture and removed restrictions on marrying Catholics.
This time, however, the issue centres on an individual rather than structural reform — making the political and symbolic stakes considerably higher.
The Palace has so far declined to comment on the government’s internal deliberations.
Monarchy seeks stability under King Charles
Since ascending the throne, King Charles III has worked to streamline the monarchy, emphasising a “slimmed-down” working royal family focused on core duties and public service.
Andrew was stripped of military titles and royal patronages in 2022 and has remained largely out of public view. Despite this, his continued technical position in the succession line has been a persistent source of controversy.
Senior figures close to the Palace say Charles is keen to avoid further distractions as the monarchy seeks to modernise and rebuild trust.
Political calculation meets public sentiment
Opinion polls consistently show strong public support for removing Andrew entirely from royal status, with many arguing that symbolic measures do not go far enough. Several MPs from across party lines have echoed those sentiments, urging the government to provide clarity and closure.
Critics warn that leaving the situation unresolved risks prolonged reputational damage, while supporters of legislative action argue that formal removal would send a clear message about accountability and standards in public life.
At the same time, ministers are conscious that any intervention touching the Crown carries constitutional sensitivities and must be handled with care.
What happens next
If the government proceeds, draft legislation could be introduced later this year, subject to parliamentary time and cross-party support. The process would likely involve extensive legal review and consultation with Commonwealth partners.
For now, Andrew remains outside active royal life — but firmly inside the legal framework of succession.
Whether that changes will depend on how far the government is willing to go in redefining the boundaries between monarchy, accountability, and modern democratic expectations.
Newshub Editorial in Europe – 23 February 2026
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