Prince Andrew steps down from public duties amid Jeffrey Epstein scandal
- Scrutiny over ‘ill-judged’ association with disgraced US financier causing ‘major disruption’ to royal family’s work
- Controversy deepened after Prince Andrew’s apparent lack of compassion for Epstein’s victims in disastrous TV interview
Britain’s Prince Andrew stepped down from public duties on Wednesday, saying the controversy surrounding his ill-judged association with late US financier Jeffrey Epstein had caused major disruption to the royal family’s work.
In a statement issued by Buckingham Palace, Andrew said the scrutiny had become a “major disruption” to the work of the royal family and the charities associated with him.
“Therefore, I have asked Her Majesty if I may step back from public duties for the foreseeable future, and she has given her permission,” he said.
“Of course, I am willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency with their investigations, if required.”
Andrew’s conduct has spilled over into political debate ahead of the December 12 national election.
Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Party leader said there were questions to be answered, although Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the monarchy was “beyond reproach”.
Prince Andrew facing 'sex slave summit' with Queen over allegations
“I continue to unequivocally regret my ill-judged association with Jeffrey Epstein,” Andrew said.
“His suicide has left many unanswered questions, particularly for his victims, and I deeply sympathise with everyone who has been affected and wants some form of closure.”
