Government considers removing Andrew from royal line of succession
BBC World
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The UK government is reportedly considering introducing legislation to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Duke of York) from the line of royal succession. This move, which would prevent him from ever becoming King, follows a police investigation into his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and public pressure over his past associations. Despite losing his royal titles in October 2022, Andrew remains eighth in line to the throne, sparking calls for legal action to strip him of this position permanently.
The proposal comes after unmarked police vehicles were seen at Royal Lodge, Andrew's former home, as part of an ongoing search operation by Thames Valley Police. The investigation has drawn support from some political groups, including the Liberal Democrats and SNP, who argue that removing Andrew from the succession line is necessary to maintain public trust in the monarchy. However, not all MPs agree—some Labour members believe such a move is unnecessary given the improbability of Andrew ever reaching the throne.
The process of altering the royal succession requires an act of Parliament, which must be approved by both houses and supported by all Commonwealth nations with King Charles as their head of state. The last time someone was removed from the line of succession through legislation was in 1936, when Edward VIII and his descendants were stripped of their rights due to his abdication.
This potential shift marks a significant moment
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on BBC World on 2/20/2026