The King has made clear his “deep concern” about the allegations about the conduct of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and will “remain ready to support” the police if approached about the claims, Buckingham Palace said.
Thames Valley Police said they are investigating claims that Andrew shared confidential reports in his role as a trade envoy with convicted pedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The crisis has once again gripped both the monarchy and Westminster and shows little sign of abating since the recent release by US authorities of millions of documents associated with Epstein.
A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his deep concern about the allegations that continue to come to light regarding the conduct of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor.
“While the specific requests in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we are prepared to support them as you would expect.
“As it was said before, the thoughts and sympathies of Their Majesties were, and remain with, the victims of all forms of abuse.”
The crisis over the Epstein files has gripped both the monarchy and Westminster (WPA Pool/Getty)
The Palace has so far not been approached by Thames Valley Police over claims that Andrew shared confidential reports from his role as UK trade envoy with Epstein.
The King hit out at Andrew’s association with Epstein on Monday during a royal visit to Lancashire.
As he met well-wishers at Clitheroe railway station in Lancashire, a man shouted to Charles: “How long have you known about Andrew and Epstein?”
Charles seemed unresponsive, while members of the crowd asked the question.
The Prince and Princess of Wales meanwhile publicly addressed the Epstein scandal for the first time on Monday.
William and Kate said they were “deeply concerned” by the “ongoing revelations” and that their thoughts “remain focused on the victims”.
A Kensington Palace spokesman said: “I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been very concerned by the ongoing revelations.
“Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.”
The documents sparked allegations made against William’s uncle, Andrew, and led to police launching an investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office.
Among the allegations is that the second woman was sent to the UK by the pedophile Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and also that the former prince and Epstein asked an exotic dancer for a threesome at Epstein’s house in Florida.