Council Removes Plaque Honouring Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor After Arrest
A plaque that commemorated a visit by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to Inverness Town House in 2018 has been quietly removed and placed into storage by Highland Council. This action follows his recent arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office, with allegations that he shared sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein during his time as a trade envoy, which he denies.
Other Councils Review Memorials
Other Scottish councils, including Dumfries and Galloway and Clackmannanshire, are now reviewing or considering similar actions regarding plaques and paving stones linked to his past visits. This move reflects a broader reassessment of public honours in light of the ongoing legal and ethical controversies.
Background and Government Response
The King previously stripped Andrew of his titles, including Earl of Inverness, last October. Additionally, the UK government is set to release files concerning his appointment as trade envoy between 2001 and 2011. This follows a unanimous parliamentary motion where MPs criticised his conduct and suggested Jeffrey Epstein's influence in his appointment.
The removal of the plaque underscores the shifting public and institutional attitudes towards figures embroiled in scandal, as authorities seek to distance themselves from associations deemed inappropriate.
