Despite losing his princely title, Andrew's name is still high up in the British line of succession. After this week's arrest, the issue of succession to the throne has been brought to the fore, and the Labour government is considering changing the line of succession, according to the BBC.
On Friday, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey wrote that it was "of course" a matter that parliament must consider. "Of course the monarchy must ensure that he can never become king," he wrote in a statement.
There is support for the idea from both Labour members and the Scottish SNP, but there are also questions about whether action is needed, as it is primarily a theoretical issue.
Long process
Removing someone from the line of succession is complicated. It requires approval in the House of Commons and the House of Lords, and a decision is only valid when the monarch also gives his approval. In addition, the leaders of the 14 Commonwealth realms where King Charles is head of state must support the decision, according to the BBC.
Ahead of him in the line of succession are Prince William and his three children, and Prince Harry and his two children. The last time a person was removed from the line of succession was in 1936, when King Edward VIII abdicated, according to the BBC.
In addition to the line of succession, Andrew is also officially part of the circle of the royal family that can act as a deputy to the king when he is abroad or seriously ill. However, in practice, Andrew is not called upon for the task.
Arrested at home
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested early Thursday at his home on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk. He was released in the evening but remains under investigation for misconduct in public office, over allegations that he passed potentially classified information to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his time as a trade envoy.
The ex-prince has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein.
Martin Yngve/TT
Facts: British line of succession
TT
They are closest in line to become British monarch.
1. William, Prince of Wales
2. Prince George (son of William)
3. Princess Charlotte (daughter of William)
4. Prince Louis (son of William)
5. Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex
6. Prince Archie (Harry's son)
7. Princess Lilibet (Harry's daughter)
8. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
9. Princess Beatrice (daughter of Andrew)
10. Sienna Mapelli Mozzi (daughter of Beatrice)
11. Athena Mapelli Mozzi (daughter of Beatrice)
12. Princess Eugenie (daughter of Andrew)
Source: Buckingham Palace
