A new YouGov poll shows 82% of Britons think Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor should be removed from the royal line of succession. The survey included over 7,200 adults. Only 6% opposed removal, and 12% were unsure.
The poll comes a day after Andrew, 66, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He served as the UK trade envoy from 2001 to 2011. Police held him for nearly 11 hours before releasing him “under investigation.” No charges have been filed yet.
Thames Valley Police also searched his homes in Norfolk and Berkshire. Investigators are looking into allegations he shared sensitive government information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The claims resurfaced after the U.S. Department of Justice released millions of pages of Epstein-related documents. Some emails reportedly suggest Andrew passed restricted trade information to Epstein. A 2020 FBI submission also revived unproven claims of child-related misconduct, but no sexual offense charges are part of the UK investigation. Andrew denies any wrongdoing.
Buckingham Palace has not commented. King Charles III said he is “deeply concerned” and stressed that “the law must take its course.” Prime Minister Keir Starmer added that “no one is above the law.”
Andrew is currently eighth in line to the throne. Removing him would require Parliament to pass a law. Public opinion has long been against him: earlier YouGov data showed just 3% of people view him positively, with 90% negative. Previous polls also showed strong support for removing his royal titles and military ranks.
Experts note that proving misconduct in public office could take time. The offense carries a maximum life sentence if found guilty. Meanwhile, survivors’ advocates and U.S. figures have welcomed the developments as a step toward accountability linked to Epstein’s network.
As the investigation continues, Andrew’s arrest and the poll results have intensified calls for action. Many MPs and commentators say he should step aside to protect the monarchy’s reputation.
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