Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor could be removed from line of succession

A minister has said the government are 'absolutely' looking at the possibility of removing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession so he could not be King under any circumstances.

While he has been stripped of his title as prince he is still in the line of succession, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is currently eighth in line to the throne behind Prince William and his three children, and Prince Harry and his two children.

It would take something quite catastrophic for it to happen but he is currently in a situation where he's no longer a prince but still could be King.

However, defence minister Luke Pollard told the BBC the government had been 'absolutely' working on plans with Buckingham Palace to prevent the former prince from being 'potentially being a heartbeat away from the throne'.

He said it was 'something that I hope will enjoy cross party support', while adding that it was something that could only happen 'when the police investigation concludes'.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is no longer a prince, but could become King if several members of his family die before him (Aaron Chown - Pool/Getty Images)

Chief Secretary to the Treasury James Murray said the police investigation must 'play out' before any legislation that might remove Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession could go ahead.

The former Duke of York was recently arrested on his 66th birthday on suspicion of misconduct in public office after Thames Valley police made a 'thorough assessment' of claims made.

He has since been released under investigation and has not been charged, he denies any wrongdoing.

Thames Valley Police said their 'searches in Norfolk have now concluded', but police were still searching the former prince's former home the Royal Lodge in Windsor, Berkshire.

The BBC also reports that in October, Downing Street said it didn't have plans to change the line of succession.

For it to happen would require an act of parliament which passed through the House of Commons and the House of Lords before being given royal assent by the King, and it would also need to be supported by the 14 other Commonwealth countries where King Charles is head of state.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was recently arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, he has not been charged and denies any wrongdoing (Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

Previous changes to the line of succession readmitted those who had been excluded for marrying Catholics, and changed the laws away from male preference for those born after 28 October, 2011 so younger sons would not be ahead of their older sisters.

The last member of the royal family to be removed from the line of succession was the former Edward VIII, who abdicated the throne in 1936.

King Charles released a statement on his brother's recent arrest, saying: "I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.

"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.

"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."

The LADbible Group has contacted the government for comment.