In a significant constitutional development within the Commonwealth, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has formally communicated to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer that his government would endorse legislative measures to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the British royal line of succession, according to reports from British media outlets.
The Australian position, articulated through official correspondence between the two leaders, represents the first public endorsement from a Commonwealth nation supporting Andrew’s permanent exclusion from succession protocols. This unprecedented move follows the former prince’s arrest last week on allegations of misconduct in public office, though he was subsequently released after hours in police custody.
Prime Minister Albanese’s letter emphasized the seriousness with which Australia views the allegations, stating: ‘I agree with His Majesty that the law must now take its full course and there must be a full, fair and proper investigation. These are grave allegations and Australians take them seriously.’
The development marks the latest chapter in Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s fall from royal prominence. Last October, he was stripped of his royal and military titles and compelled to vacate Royal Lodge, his official residence. He has since been residing in alternative private accommodation under his current legal name.
The British government is reportedly considering introducing specific legislation to formally remove Andrew from the succession order, a constitutional process that would require coordination across Commonwealth realms. This potential legislative action represents one of the most significant adjustments to royal succession protocols in modern history.