UK MPs seek treason investigation into Prince Andrew over Epstein ties, government considers disqualification from royal heir apparent

The British government says it is considering removing Prince Andrew from the royal line of succession after a senior Conservative MP called for a possible treason investigation into Prince Andrew following his arrest over alleged links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.Former security minister Tom Tugendhat urged parliament to set up a special committee of MPs, civilians and retired judges to review Andrew’s ties to Epstein and assess whether national security may have been compromised.“This incident raises urgent questions about foreign influence and national security,” Tugendhat said, adding that if serious misconduct was proven, Parliament would have to determine whether existing treason laws were sufficient.Andrew, 66, was arrested last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office and was questioned by police for hours over accusations he shared sensitive information with Epstein while he was Britain’s trade envoy. Police are continuing to search his former home, Royal Villas in Windsor Great Park, as part of the ongoing investigation. He denies any wrongdoing.The controversy has also drawn attention to former British ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson, who is accused of leaking confidential government documents to Epstein between 2009 and 2010. Mandelson has denied the allegations and has not been arrested, but he is reportedly under investigation for potential misconduct in public office.Education Secretary Bridget Philipson said the government “would not rule out” further action, including a judge-led inquiry, but stressed authorities must allow police to complete their investigation.The government has also left open the option of legislating Andrew out of the royal line of succession, a move that would require parliamentary approval and the formal consent of King Charles III.Although Andrew has stepped down from royal duties, he remains eighth in line to the throne. King Charles said in a statement after his brother’s arrest that “the law must take its course” and pledged to cooperate fully with investigators.The escalating crisis has prompted cross-party calls for accountability, with lawmakers warning the outcome could have significant consequences for public trust in British institutions and the future of the monarchy.