Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has expressed support for removing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession to the British throne. In a letter to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Albanese confirmed that his government would back any proposal to remove the former prince, citing the “grave allegations” against him and emphasizing the need for a “full, fair and proper investigation.”
Andrew, the Duke of York, remains eighth in line to the throne despite having his royal titles, including “prince”, stripped in October 2025, following public pressure over his ties to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The former prince was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office on Thursday, though he was released under investigation later the same day. He has consistently denied wrongdoing, according to BBC News reporting.
Removing Andrew from the succession line would require an act of the UK Parliament, supported by the 14 Commonwealth countries where King Charles III is head of state, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Jamaica. The legislation would only come into effect after receiving royal assent from the King. The last time Parliament removed someone from the line of succession was in 1936, when Edward VIII abdicated the throne.
The move has generated varied reactions. Defence Minister Luke Pollard told the BBC that removing Andrew permanently from succession would be “the right thing to do,” while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage cautioned against rushing legislation before the ongoing police investigation concludes. Buckingham Palace has not publicly commented on the matter, stating that any legislative process would be a matter for Parliament.
Andrew’s legal and public controversies continue to overshadow the royal family, raising questions about accountability and the future of succession. Australia’s backing marks a significant Commonwealth endorsement for potential legislative action, reflecting the seriousness with which allegations against Andrew are being treated internationally.
