Following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor this morning, King Charles has spoken out.
After a number of vehicles, believed to be police cars, arrived at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, the former prince is currently being held in custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The King has said he 'learned with the deepest concern' of his younger brother's arrest. Officers are now carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, as well as reportedly the Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, where he lived until recently.
Turning 66 today, Andrew's arrest follows allegations made against him after the release of millions of pages of files related to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein (the police are yet to comment on whether the two incidents are linked). He has denied any wrongdoing over his links to the disgraced financier but has not directly responded to the latest allegations.
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There had been growing pressure for Andrew to help with Epstein enquiries and give evidence for the investigation. Having previously stripped him of his royal titles, the King now says 'the law must take its course'.
A written statement from King Charles reads: "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."
As news of Andrew's arrest broke, a statement from Thames Valley police said: "As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.
"The man remains in police custody at this time.
"We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court."
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Press Association reports that the Prince and Princess of Wales support the King's statement.
Topics: Royal Family, Crime, UK News, King Charles III, Prince Andrew
Jess Battison