As renewed attention surrounds the latest release of Epstein-related files, royal watchers are once again questioning how the monarchy is responding. With growing calls for transparency and reform, many observers are looking toward Prince William and wondering where he stands amid the ongoing controversy.
William and the question of accountability
According to royal commentator Tom Sykes, editor of The Royalist newsletter on Substack, the Prince of Wales believes that his uncle should not be protected from proper scrutiny.
Sykes claims that if William were already king, he would not hesitate to allow Andrew to face a police investigation. The reasoning, according to sources close to William, is rooted in the belief that the monarchy cannot maintain public trust if it appears to place itself above the law.
Sykes wrote that friends of William have told him the prince would have “no hesitation” in making it clear that Andrew should be subject to a police probe. He added that William genuinely believes the institution cannot remain respected unless it visibly upholds the principle that no individual is beyond accountability.
By contrast, Sykes suggests that those close to King Charles see the situation differently. One former royal staff member was quoted as saying that the monarchy has shielded Andrew from consequences for years and that this approach is unlikely to change.
Pressure grows as Epstein files resurface
Public scrutiny has intensified following the release of a new tranche of Epstein-related material. Andrew’s long-standing association with the late convicted sex offender has been criticised for years, but renewed attention has once again placed both him and the royal family under the spotlight.
Among the recently released materials are images allegedly showing Andrew kneeling on all fours over an unidentified woman. No context has been provided for the photographs, and there is no confirmed information regarding when or where they were taken. As with other appearances in the Epstein files, being named or depicted does not constitute proof of wrongdoing.
Andrew has consistently denied all allegations made against him.
Palace response and wider royal reaction
Ahead of Prince William’s arrival in Riyadh earlier this week, Kensington Palace issued a statement on behalf of both William and Princess Kate.
A spokesperson said the Prince and Princess of Wales were “deeply concerned by the continuing revelations” and that their focus remained firmly on the victims. According to ITV, sources close to William wanted to ensure there was “zero doubt” about his position on the matter.
Elsewhere, Prince Edward also addressed the issue while on a visit to Dubai, emphasising that attention should remain on those who were harmed. He said it was vital to remember who the real victims are in the situation.
In related developments, Andrew has reportedly moved out of Royal Lodge in Windsor, where he had lived for more than 20 years. Buckingham Palace confirmed last year that he would vacate the property after King Charles stripped him of his remaining titles and dukedom.
Representatives for Kensington Palace and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor have been contacted for comment.
