New Zealand backs possible removal of Andrew from succession

New Zealand has signalled it would back any move by the United Kingdom to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession to the throne, following similar indications from Australia.

A spokesman for Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Wellington would support such a step if proposed by the government in London, according to Radio New Zealand.

Andrew, the younger brother of Britain's King Charles III, is under investigation in the United Kingdom in connection with the scandal surrounding convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He was briefly detained last week.

The former prince is accused of misconduct while in public office, allegedly passing information to Epstein during his previous role as a trade envoy.

Luxon told reporters his government had been in contact with the British Cabinet Office in recent days. "No one is above the law," he said, adding New Zealand had communicated its position before Australia's stance became public.

Earlier, the Australian government said in a letter to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer that it would support a possible exclusion of Andrew.

Australia and New Zealand are among 15 Commonwealth realms whose approval would be required for changes to the succession law. First in line to the throne is Prince William, followed by his son Prince George. Andrew is currently eighth in line.