King Charles reacts to brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest

Friday, 20 February 2026 00:30

The monarch said he "learned with the deepest concern" of the new of his younger brother's arrest but believes "the law must take its course".

King Charles has spoken out about his brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest.

The former Prince Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office at his new home on the Sandringham Estate on the morning of his 66th birthday.

The monarch said he "learned with the deepest concern" of his younger brother's arrest and "the law must take its course".

LIVE UPDATES: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested

Prince Andrew, Duke of York, King Charles III and Prince William, Prince of Wales

"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," he said.

Royal commentator Katie Nicholl told the BBC that Buckingham Palace and King Charles were not given advance warning of Andrew's arrest.

"I suspect there is probably also a sense of relief on the King's part," the Vanity Fair correspondent said.

"I was told by sources close to the King this felt like a pressure chamber, just waiting for this arrest to happen.

"They didn't know it was going to happen, they've only just learned of it, as we have as well.

"So I think there is a sense that perhaps this comes as a relief, and of course, it puts the King in a position where he actually can't say anything else."

Nicholl said while she was surprised by the King's strong statement, she believes the monarch was aware of the need for "greater transparency now around this".

"When you look at this statement, the King just couldn't keep silent," she said.

"We weren't sure we were going to get a statement [but] I think it's absolutely right that we have done - people want a response.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Andrew, center right, arrive for a Service of Thanksgiving for the life of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, at Westminster Abbey in London, Tuesday, March 29, 2022. (Richard Pohle/Pool via AP)

"I think when you consider the last reign, that of the late Queen Elizabeth, that famous mantra the late Queen had 'never complain, never explain' that simply doesn't wash here, that's simply not going to be enough for people.

"We're in a different era, we're in a different generation."

His Majesty said, like his late mother's attention to duty and service above all else, he would continue with planned engagements following his brother's arrest.

King Charles' statement in full

"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."

Thames Valley Police full statement

Thames Valley Police has opened an investigation into the offence of misconduct in public office.

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."