Expert says the monarch may stay silent publicly while discussions continue behind palace doors
King Charles is said to be in a “delicate position” as debate continues over whether Andrew could face further consequences, including the possibility of being removed from the line of succession.
The discussion intensified after the government said it would not rule out future action regarding the Duke’s constitutional status. The comment, issued on February 23, has renewed scrutiny of Andrew’s place within the royal framework.
Public relations expert Lynn Carratt from E20 Communications recently addressed the issue during a conversation with GB News, suggesting that the monarch’s role in the matter is likely to remain largely behind the scenes.
According to Carratt, the King is expected to approach the situation carefully, given the constitutional limits placed on a reigning monarch. While conversations may be happening privately, she believes the public is unlikely to hear the King’s personal view on the matter.
Carratt explained that Charles must maintain strict political neutrality, which means he cannot openly support or oppose legislation that would remove Andrew from the line of succession, even if he has private opinions about it.
Instead, the monarch’s involvement would likely focus on oversight, ensuring that any constitutional steps are handled properly and without controversy. Carratt noted that Charles has spent decades navigating the balance between royal tradition and modern expectations.
Calls for further action against Andrew have continued following renewed attention on his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The controversy previously led to the loss of his royal duties and military titles, amid growing public criticism.
Now attention has turned to whether his place in the line of succession could also be reconsidered.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard recently indicated that discussions may already be taking place, adding that any move would ideally gain support across political parties.
For the King, Carratt suggests the priority will be protecting the stability of the monarchy while respecting parliamentary processes. Publicly, his approach is expected to remain measured, while privately careful discussions may continue among advisers and legal experts.
