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US lawmakers renew calls for Prince Andrew's testimony on Epstein ties
Members of a US congressional committee investigating the Jeffrey Epstein case have intensified demands for Prince Andrew to answer questions, following King Charles's decision to strip his brother of royal titles over persistent scrutiny of their association. The House Oversight Committee, led by Democrats, has urged Andrew to cooperate voluntarily, though Republicans controlling the panel have not signaled support for formal action.
Committee members urge voluntary cooperation
Congressman Suhas Subramanyam told the BBC that Andrew's testimony could help victims, stating, "If he wants to clear his name, if he wants to do right by the victims, he will come forward." Subramanyam noted Andrew could appear remotely, with legal representation, and in private if needed. "Frankly, Andrew's name has come up many times from the victims," he added, emphasizing the prince's potential knowledge of Epstein's activities.
Fellow Democrat Raja Krishnamoorthi suggested a subpoena could be issued if Andrew enters US jurisdiction, though enforcement would prove difficult abroad. "Come clean. Come before the US Congress, voluntarily testify," Krishnamoorthi urged, framing the inquiry as essential for justice and prevention. Congressman Stephen Lynch echoed the call, acknowledging logistical hurdles but stressing the potential value of Andrew's account for survivors.
Accusers question Andrew's reluctance
Epstein accuser Liz Stein criticized Andrew's refusal to engage, telling BBC Breakfast: "If he has nothing to hide, then why is he hiding?" She highlighted his longstanding friendship with Epstein, suggesting he may have witnessed critical details. UK trade minister Chris Bryant separately argued Andrew should comply with US investigators if invited, "just as with any ordinary member of the public."
"A lot of us are curious as to why he's unwilling to cooperate and be questioned about his involvement with Epstein."
Liz Stein, Epstein accuser
New documents and UK police scrutiny
Court records released Friday revealed a 2010 email from Andrew to Epstein, proposing to "catch up in person" after Epstein's prison release for soliciting a minor. The pair were later photographed in Central Park-an encounter Andrew claimed was to sever ties. Meanwhile, UK's police watchdog confirmed it contacted Scotland Yard's misconduct division last week regarding media reports that Andrew sought accuser Virginia Giuffre's personal details via his 2011 police protection. No referrals have been made.
Giuffre's posthumous memoir, published this month, reiterated allegations that Andrew sexually abused her as a teenager-claims he denies. The Palace's Thursday statement cited "serious lapses of judgement" in Andrew's conduct, though he maintains innocence. King Charles's decision to revoke titles and relocate Andrew from Royal Lodge to a Norfolk estate underscores the monarchy's effort to distance itself from the controversy.
Royal Family's response and next steps
The Palace emphasized sympathy for abuse survivors while reaffirming Andrew's denial of wrongdoing. His relocation, funded by the King, may extend into early 2025. On Saturday, a vehicle linked to Andrew was seen departing Windsor Great Park, though his whereabouts remain unconfirmed.
With US lawmakers divided on enforcement and UK authorities reviewing allegations, the pressure on Andrew to address his Epstein connections-voluntarily or otherwise-shows no sign of abating.
