A shocking new poll has revealed that 82% of Britons think Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor should be removed from the line of succession after he was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office on Thursday.
The poll was conducted among 7242 adults in the UK and ran between 5pm on Thursday night and 8am on Friday morning. It also found that 6% of respondents said Andrew should not be removed from the line of succession, while a further 12% said they did not know.
The former Duke of York currently sits in eighth place in line to the throne behind Prince Harry’s daughter, Princess Lilibet, and ahead of his eldest daughter, Princess Beatrice. He still holds his place in the line of succession but has been stripped of his titles, including his princely title and honours.
The new poll comes after Andrew was released from custody following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
He spent 11 hours in custody and was pictured looking drained as he was driven out of Aylsham police station in Norfolk on Thursday evening.
The former prince was held on Thursday morning following allegations made against him after the release of files related to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.
It was claimed that during his 10-year tenure as the UK’s trade envoy, he shared highly confidential and sensitive trade documents with the convicted sex offender.
After Andrew’s arrest, the King issued a written statement, which was released earlier today. It began: “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.
“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation.
“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all. Charles R.”
Andrew has continuously denied any wrongdoing.