King Charles Faces Public Scrutiny After Brother's Arrest at London Fashion Week
King Charles III made his first public appearance at London Fashion Week on Thursday, February 19, just hours after his brother, Prince Andrew, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The monarch arrived at 180 Studios on The Strand wearing a dark suit, stepping out of his car to a mixed reaction from the public lining the streets, with audible shouts, cheers, and groans from the gathered crowd.
Royal Statement on the Arrest
In a statement issued earlier that day, King Charles expressed his "deepest concern" over the arrest and emphasized that "the law must take its course." He elaborated: "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."
The King further clarified: "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." It is understood that neither the King nor Buckingham Palace was informed in advance of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest, with the Press Association reporting that the Prince and Princess of Wales support the King's statement.
Continued Royal Engagements Amid Controversy
Despite the unfolding developments, Charles proceeded with his official engagements, holding three separate in-person audiences at St James's Palace around midday. Dressed in a smart morning suit, he welcomed:
- Spanish ambassador Emma Aparici Vazquez de Parga
- El Salvador's ambassador Francisco Lima Mena
- Kenya's high commissioner Maurice Makoloo
These meetings took place in the palace's Throne Room, demonstrating the monarch's commitment to maintaining his duties despite the family crisis.
Police Investigation into Allegations
Meanwhile, Thames Valley Police confirmed they have opened an investigation into allegations linked to the former duke. The force is reviewing claims that a woman was trafficked to the UK by Jeffrey Epstein to have a sexual encounter with Andrew, as well as allegations that sensitive information was shared while Andrew served as the UK's trade envoy.
Images circulating online appeared to show unmarked police vehicles at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, with plain-clothed officers outside the property believed to be Andrew's home. Searches are also being carried out at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, according to police statements.
Email Evidence and Official Response
Emails released by the US Department of Justice appeared to show the former duke sharing reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. One email dated November 2010 appeared to have been forwarded just five minutes after it was sent by his then-special adviser Amir Patel. Another, sent on Christmas Eve 2010, appeared to include a confidential brief on investment opportunities in the reconstruction of Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Andrew has denied any wrongdoing in relation to his links with Epstein but has not directly responded to the latest allegations. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated: "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."
