King Charles Releases Formal Statement Following Brother's Arrest
King Charles has issued a formal statement regarding the arrest of his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest occurred on the morning of Andrew's 66th birthday, February 19, according to reports from the BBC.
Police Searches Conducted at Royal Properties
Following the arrest, authorities carried out searches at Royal Lodge, Andrew's former residence. Thames Valley Police confirmed that searches were also conducted at addresses in both Norfolk and Berkshire as part of the investigation.
The police force stated they were assessing a complaint regarding the alleged sharing of confidential material by the former Duke of York with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing in connection with these allegations.
King Charles' Clear Message on Legal Process
In his statement, King Charles expressed "deepest concern" about the news regarding his brother and the suspicion of misconduct in public office. The monarch emphasized the importance of proper legal procedures, stating: "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."
The King made his position unequivocally clear, adding: "Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation."
King Charles concluded by noting that it would not be appropriate for him to comment further while the legal process continues, but affirmed that he and his family would "continue in our duty and service to you all."
Prime Minister Emphasizes Equality Under Law
During an appearance on BBC Breakfast, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed the allegations surrounding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The Prime Minister stressed that "nobody is above the law" in the British legal system.
"One of the core principles in our system is that everybody is equal under the law, and nobody is above the law," Starmer stated. "It is really important that is applied across the board. That is the principle. It's a long-standing principle, it's a very important principle of our country, our society, and it applies, and it has to apply in this case, in the same way as it would apply in any other case."
The Prime Minister encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward, particularly regarding cases involving violence against women and girls. "Anybody who has got information relating to any aspect of violence against women and girls has, in my view, a duty to come forward, whoever they are," he added.
The investigation continues as authorities examine the allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, with both the monarchy and government leadership emphasizing the importance of proper legal procedures and equality before the law.
