Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has informed UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer that his government supports removing Prince Andrew from the royal line of succession. This backing is crucial as such a move requires the agreement of the 14 Commonwealth realms where King Charles III is head of state.
Prince Andrew, currently eighth in line to the throne, was stripped of his military titles and royal patronages in October amid controversy surrounding his past association with Jeffrey Epstein. The UK government is reportedly considering legislation to formally remove him from the succession, following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Prince Andrew denies any wrongdoing.
Albanese's confirmation came via a letter stating: "my government would agree to any proposal to remove him from the line of royal succession." He emphasized that Australians take the grave allegations seriously and that the law must take its course.
Removing an individual from the line of succession has historical precedent, with Edward VIII and his descendants removed in 1936 following his abdication. The process requires an act of Parliament, approved by both houses and ultimately granted royal assent.