4 godzin temu
King Charles has stripped Prince Andrew of his royal titles and evicted him from Royal Lodge as US lawmakers intensify calls for the Duke of York to testify about his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The 65-year-old will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor and must relocate to private accommodation on the Sandringham estate.
Members of the House Oversight Committee are demanding Andrew appear before Congress to disclose what he knows about Epstein's criminal network. Democrat Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi told BBC Newsnight: «I would go so far as to subpoena him.» He added that while enforcing such a subpoena would be difficult for someone on foreign soil, Andrew would be subject to US jurisdiction if he travels to America.
Newly unsealed court documents reveal Andrew emailed Epstein in April 2010, months after the financier's release from prison, saying it would be «good to catch up in person.» The correspondence emerged from a legal battle between the US Virgin Islands and JP Morgan over the bank's dealings with Epstein. Andrew later told the BBC that a December 2010 meeting with Epstein was intended to end their friendship.
Congressional pressure mounts
Congressman Suhas Subramanyam told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: «I would like for him to come to our committee and tell us everything he knows about Jeffrey Epstein and the crimes that were committed, I think this would be a great way for Andrew to clear his name, it would be great way for us to continue our pursuit of justice for the victims, and frankly, Andrew's name has come up many times from the victims, and so he clearly has knowledge of what happened, and we just want him to come forward and tell us what he knows.»
UK Trade Minister Chris Bryant said Andrew should accept any US invitation to answer questions, treating him like any ordinary citizen. However, Republicans who control the committee have not yet indicated support for summoning Andrew. He has consistently denied all allegations against him.
Palace statement
Buckingham Palace confirmed the formal process to remove Andrew's titles, stating the censures were necessary despite his denials. The statement added: «Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.» Andrew has been served formal notice to surrender his lease on the 30-room Royal Lodge, where he has lived since 2003.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
