biggest constitutional crisis for almost century is enveloping British monarchy. The former Prince Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, offence that can carry sentence of life imprisonment. On Thursday, he was held in custody for nearly 11 hours. UK police are investigating allegations that Andrew shared confidential trade information with late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew was UK trade envoy between 2001 and 2011. The British government is now considering removing him from line of succession to throne. Andrew is currently eighth in line to be monarch. This can only be changed with new legislation.
In 1936, former King Edward VIII abdicated. UK government passed law to recognize abdication and to declare that Edward had ceased to be king. similar law could affect Andrew, who has been mired in controversy regarding his association with Epstein. Subsequent scandals resulted in Andrew being formally stripped of his title of Prince last year by his brother King Charles III. This meant Andrew can no longer be called "Prince Andrew", nor can he use his other royal titles. He is now known simply as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. He has yet to comment on allegations of misconduct, but has consistently denied any wrongdoing in his connection with Epstein.
