UK's Chief Prosecutor Declares Royals Subject to Law Amid Andrew Investigation
Stephen Parkinson, the Director of Public Prosecutions, has issued a stark warning that "nobody is above the law" as Prince Andrew faces a police investigation over alleged leaks of confidential information to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The UK's top prosecutor emphasized that royal status provides no legal immunity during an interview with The Sunday Times.
Police Probe into Alleged Confidentiality Breaches
Thames Valley Police are examining claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, while serving as the UK's trade envoy between 2010 and 2011, forwarded official reports concerning trips to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Vietnam to Epstein. These documents, released by the US Department of Justice as part of the latest Epstein files tranche, suggest potential breaches of the duty of confidentiality required of trade envoys.
Parkinson stated unequivocally: "No, of course not" when questioned about whether royals enjoy special legal protection. He expressed "total confidence" in police independence throughout the investigation, adding: "It's my job to enforce the law, and I do so without fear or favour, and that is unaffected by the status of the individual concerned."
Potential Charges and Historical Significance
The investigation focuses on whether Andrew's alleged actions constitute misconduct in public office, which Parkinson described as "a relatively popular offence with which to charge a public officer." He explained: "From my perspective, I don't find it a difficult offence to prosecute because the core of it is a gross breach of trust by someone performing the function of a public officer."
Should charges result from this renewed police scrutiny, Andrew would become the first royal in modern British history to face trial for a serious criminal offence. This development occurs alongside mounting evidence of the former prince's connections to Epstein, detailed in recently released documents.
Parallel Investigation Involving Former Minister
In a related development, Lord Peter Mandelson, the disgraced former UK ambassador to the United States, also faces police investigation over allegations he transmitted market-sensitive information to Epstein while serving as business secretary during the 2008 financial crisis. The Metropolitan Police have conducted searches at two of Mandelson's properties as part of their inquiry.
Royal Family Response and Public Reaction
The unfolding scandal has prompted unprecedented public commentary from senior royals. Last week, Prince William and Princess Catherine spoke publicly for the first time about the revelations, expressing they are "deeply concerned" by the situation and that their thoughts remain with Epstein's victims.
This statement marks a significant departure from the royal family's traditional approach to legal matters involving its members, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations and their potential constitutional implications.
The investigations continue as authorities examine whether confidential government information was improperly shared with Epstein, who died in prison while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The outcome could establish important precedents regarding accountability for public officials regardless of their social or political standing.
