Albanese tells UK: We would dump Andrew from royal line of succession

Sydney Morning Herald

by Paul Sakkal

February 23, 2026

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Albanese tells UK: We would dump Andrew from royal line of succession

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has taken a bold stance by preemptively stating that Australia would support removing Prince Andrew from the line of royal succession. In a letter to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Albanese confirmed his government’s agreement to any proposal to strip Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor of his succession rights, citing the serious allegations against him and emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. This move comes as public sentiment toward Andrew has grown increasingly negative, with polls showing 59% of respondents view him unfavorably. Albanese’s preemptive action underscores the political pressure to distance oneself from a figure embroiled in scandal, particularly as Starmer faces internal Labour Party challenges and criticism over ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The article highlights that Andrew, once second in line to the throne, now sits eighth after the families of Princes William and Harry. His arrest last week on charges related to misconduct in public office has further tarnished his reputation, making it highly unlikely he would ever become a head of state. The UK government is considering legislation to remove him from the succession line, but this requires 15 Commonwealth nations to pass similar laws. Albanese’s preemptive letter signals Australia’s willingness to align with such changes, reflecting the broader shift in public opinion toward stripping Andrew of his royal privileges. The scandal has also reignited debates about Australia’s relationship with the monarchy. While Albanese remains a long-time advocate for an Australian republic, he has ruled out holding a referendum on the issue in the near future, following the failed Voice to Parliament referendum. However, public support for a republic has grown, with 43% of respondents in a recent poll backing the idea. This shift in sentiment suggests that the monarchy’s role in Australia may continue to be scrutinized and challenged, particularly as scandals like Andrew’s cast doubt on the institution’s relevance and legitimacy.

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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026