British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has shifted his position regarding testimony in the Jeffrey Epstein case, now stating that Prince Andrew should cooperate with a Congressional inquiry. This change comes as pressure mounts on the brother of Charles III following the release of new evidence.
Shifting Stance on Testimony
Previously, Starmer had only encouraged “anyone with information” to come forward. On Saturday, while concluding a visit to China and Japan, he responded to questions about whether Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor should respond to requests from U.S. lawmakers who have sought his testimony since November. Starmer stated, “Yes, in relation to giving evidence, I’ve always said that anybody with information ought to be prepared to share it.” He added, “You can’t be listening to victims if you’re not prepared to do that.”
Starmer declined to comment on potential apologies from Andrew, stating that decision was up to him. The shift in Starmer’s stance reflects increasing scrutiny of the former prince, who was stripped of his royal titles in October and asked to leave his residence at Royal Lodge due to his association with Epstein.
New Evidence Emerges
The increased pressure follows the release on Friday of millions of documents related to the Epstein case by the U.S. Department of Justice. These documents include undated photographs depicting Prince Andrew in a compromising position with a woman, whose face has been obscured. Emails from 2010 also reveal that Epstein was invited by Andrew to Buckingham Palace and offered to connect him with a young Russian woman.
Prince Andrew, 65, has consistently denied accusations of sexual assault made by Virginia Giuffre, alleging abuse when she was a minor. A lawsuit brought by Giuffre against Andrew in 2022 was settled out of court for an undisclosed sum, reportedly in the millions of pounds. Virginia Giuffre died by suicide in April of last year in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Keir Starmer to change his position?
Starmer’s change in position came after the release of millions of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, including photos and emails that put Prince Andrew under further scrutiny, and following repeated requests from U.S. lawmakers for his testimony.
What was revealed in the newly released documents?
The documents included undated photos showing Prince Andrew with a woman, and emails revealing that Jeffrey Epstein was invited to Buckingham Palace by Andrew and offered to connect him with a young woman.
What was the outcome of the lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre against Prince Andrew?
The lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre against Prince Andrew in 2022 was settled out of court for an undisclosed sum, reportedly in the millions of pounds.
What impact will this continued pressure have on Prince Andrew and the British monarchy moving forward?
