King Charles pledges full cooperation as police investigate Prince Andrew over alleged misconduct in UK royal offices

King Charles has announced that he will allow police complete access to all files and records necessary for any inquiry into his brother, Prince Andrew.

This comes after the former prince’s dramatic arrest on Thursday morning, suspected of misconduct in a public office.

Palace insiders say the move towards transparency is deliberate, but some courtiers worry the release of documents could expose earlier cover-ups.

A royal source told The Observer that the palace intends to cooperate “fully and wholeheartedly,” reflecting the King’s commitment to transparency in the face of mounting scrutiny.

The Allegations Against Prince Andrew

The arrest followed statements from Thames Valley Police, who are investigating claims that Andrew, while serving as the UK’s special trade envoy in Asia in 2010 and 2011, shared confidential trade reports and investment opportunities with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

Andrew, who had a 15-year association with Epstein, was questioned for 11 hours at Aylsham Police Investigation Centre.

He was photographed appearing despondent in a Range Rover as he left the facility, attempting to shield himself from cameras.

Royal Residences Under Scrutiny

The investigation has extended to Andrew’s royal residences.

Police have already searched Wood Farm, where he was relocated following his eviction from the Royal Lodge by King Charles earlier this month.

Authorities are now conducting searches at Royal Lodge, where Andrew had maintained a private office and apartment until 2022.

While King Charles and Prince William are believed to be removed from any potential cover-ups, insiders warn that senior palace figures in previous leadership may have been aware of Andrew’s activities and failed to act.

Investigations Could Expand

Senior criminal defence lawyer Marcus Johnstone has explained that police will not limit themselves to the initial allegation.

If evidence of other offences surfaces, authorities are likely to pursue those as well.

Specifically, he mentioned that involvement in Epstein’s sex-trafficking ring would be fully investigated.

Scotland Yard has also widened its inquiry to Andrew’s staff and instructed all former royal protection officers to report any suspicions of wrongdoing.

Former officer Paul Page has stated that “upwards of 40 women” visited Andrew at Buckingham Palace during his tenure guarding him between 1998 and 2004.

Tensions Within the Palace

The arrest has sent tremors through Buckingham Palace.

Officials are concerned about the potential fallout from previously undisclosed activities.

While King Charles is publicly emphasizing transparency, the revelations could implicate long-standing figures within the institution.

The palace has so far declined to comment on whether investigators will continue to comb through the King’s official residence, leaving questions about the full scope of the inquiry.

What’s Next?

Police investigations are expected to continue over the coming weeks, as they examine Andrew’s files, communications, and associates.

Any new leads could expand the case, potentially leading to more arrests or formal charges.

For the royal family, this period will test their commitment to transparency while navigating public scrutiny.

Andrew’s legal team is likely to contest certain aspects of the investigation, and observers will watch closely for updates on searches, evidence disclosures, and potential prosecutions.

Summary

King Charles has promised full cooperation with police investigating his brother, Prince Andrew, who was arrested over alleged misconduct in public office linked to Jeffrey Epstein.

The inquiry covers files, communications, and residences including Wood Farm and Royal Lodge.

While the King and Prince William are said to be removed from any potential cover-ups, prior palace leadership may have been aware of Andrew’s activities.

Scotland Yard has expanded its investigation to Andrew’s staff and former royal protection officers, with lawyers indicating that any additional offences uncovered will also be pursued.

Andrew was questioned for 11 hours following his arrest and the case continues to develop.