The UK government is considering introducing legislation to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of royal succession, according to Defence Minister Luke Pollard.
Pollard told the BBC that the move, which would prevent Andrew from ever becoming King, was the right thing to do, regardless of the outcome of the police investigation. Andrew, the King's brother, remains eighth in line to the throne despite being stripped of his titles last October.
On Thursday evening, Andrew was released under investigation 11 hours after his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Government Proposal
The government's proposal comes after some MPs signalled their support for such legislation. The move would require an act of Parliament, which would have to be approved by MPs and peers and would come into effect when given royal assent by the King.
The Liberal Democrats and SNP have expressed support for the legislation, while some Labour parliamentarians have expressed reservations. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said all parties should give space to the police investigation.
Police Investigation
Thames Valley Police, the force which arrested Andrew, is expected to continue searching Royal Lodge until Monday. Unmarked police cars and vans were seen at the property on Friday.
Line of Succession
The last time the line of succession was changed by an act of Parliament was in 2013, when the Succession to the Crown Act restored individuals who had previously been excluded because they had married a Catholic. The last time someone was removed from the line of succession by an act of Parliament was in 1936.
Reaction from MPs
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said police should be allowed to get on with their job, acting without fear or favour. Labour MP Rachael Maskell has also backed the move to remove Andrew from the line of succession.
