Australian PM backs removal of ex-Prince Andrew from succession line

In February 2026, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced his government's support for removing ex-Prince Andrew from the line of succession to the British throne due to his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Australia is communicating its position to other Commonwealth countries. New Zealand has also stated it would support the UK government should it propose the removal. The move follows ex-Prince Andrew's recent arrest and questioning related to alleged misconduct in public office concerning his dealings with Epstein. Albanese stated that any change to the line of succession would need to be initiated by the UK and agreed upon by the 14 other Commonwealth nations that recognize King Charles III as head of state.

Following Australia, New Zealand has announced its support for removing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the royal line of succession. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon stated New Zealand would back the UK government if it proposes such action after the completion of a police investigation into Mountbatten-Windsor. The move comes after his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office and renewed scrutiny of his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Removing him requires an act of the UK parliament and the support of all 14 Commonwealth countries where King Charles is head of state. While eighth in line to the throne, Mountbatten-Windsor relinquished royal titles but remains a counsellor of state, though he is unlikely to act in that capacity. The UK government is expected to consider legislation to remove his right to inherit the throne after the police investigation concludes.

Downing Street has stated that a parliamentary inquiry into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's connections to Jeffrey Epstein is a matter for MPs to decide. This comes amid renewed scrutiny of Andrew's role as a trade envoy between 2001 and 2011, following his recent arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The Liberal Democrats plan to use an opposition day debate to push for more information regarding his time as trade envoy. Additionally, the Australian Prime Minister has indicated no objection to Andrew being removed from the royal line of succession, a move requiring parliamentary action and the agreement of all 14 Commonwealth realms. While Andrew has relinquished his royal titles, he remains eighth in line to the throne.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed support for removing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of royal succession in a letter to the UK government. This follows Andrew's recent arrest and ongoing scrutiny regarding his past associations, despite his denials of wrongdoing. The UK government is considering legislation to remove him, a process that would require approval from the 14 Commonwealth countries where King Charles III is head of state, including Australia, Canada, Jamaica, and New Zealand. Removing Andrew, currently eighth in line to the throne, would require an Act of Parliament supported by these nations. King Charles has stated that the matter should be fully investigated.

The Australian government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has offered its support to the UK regarding the potential removal of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the royal line of succession. This comes as the UK government prepares to consider laws that could strip the former prince of his inheritance rights following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Albanese communicated Australia's backing in a letter to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The UK is expected to finalize any policy investigation before enacting laws. The move signifies a potential change in the line of succession within the British monarchy.