“Absolute mockery of the Monarchy”: Piers Morgan reacts to ex-Prince Andrew's arrest with scathing call for removal from line of succession

Royal Family Attend Sunday Service In Windsor - Source: Getty
Royal Family Attend Sunday Service In Windsor - Source: Getty

Media personality Piers Morgan has asked for the removal of ex-Prince Andrew from the line of succession following his arrest. On February 19, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested in connection to an investigation into the offense of "misconduct in public office." The former Duke of York served as a British trade envoy till 2011 and was accused of sharing confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein.

Former Prince Andrew has faced criticism over his alleged ties with the late sex offender. After the fresh tranche of Epstein files was released by the US DOJ last month, several emails appeared that substantiated the allegations. Thames Valley Police began an investigation into King Charles' brother earlier this month and eventually arrested him on Thursday.

Piers Morgan, who strongly demanded an inquiry into former Prince Andrew following the release of the Epstein files, reacted after the arrest. Morgan demanded that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's right to inherit the British throne should be taken away.

"It’s preposterous that shamed Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains 8th in line to the throne and makes an absolute mockery of the monarchy. He must be removed asap. Like, today," Morgan wrote.

Earlier on Thursday, Morgan made the same demand of King Charles in his tweet. However, X users added context to his post and argued that the British monarch could not remove anyone from the succession line. A parliamentary statute is required to make changes in the succession line.

While the former Duke of York, who was stripped of his royal title in October last year, sits at number eight in the list, he could never become a king, as he is no longer a working royal.

According to The Guardian's report, several lawmakers are reportedly planning to bring legislation for former Prince Andrew's removal from the succession line.


More about former Prince Andrew's arrest

Following the latest release of emails in the Epstein files, allegations against the ex-Prince Andrew of passing confidential information to the late financier were renewed. Anti-monarchy pressure group Republic filed a complaint in this record. On February 9, Thames Valley Police confirmed the complaint received against the former Duke. Later in the day, King Charles also shared a statement, extending his support to the investigation.

On Thursday morning, following his brother's arrest, King Charles made another statement.

"I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office. What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation," the statement read.

It added,

"Let me state clearly: the law must take its course... As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all."

Later on Thursday evening, former Prince Andrew was "released under investigation."


Also read: Where is former Prince Andrew now after being released? King Charles' brother relocates as police continues to search his house over Epstein ties

Edited by Sohini Biswas