A Labour MP has launched a scathing attack on Prince Andrew, claiming the royal has inflicted greater damage on monarchist sentiment than any figure since the 17th century.
Graham Stringer declared that the prince has achieved “more for republicanism than anyone since Oliver Cromwell” through his controversial conduct.
The MP accused Prince Andrew of wielding a metaphorical wrecking ball against public backing for the Royal Family.
His comments emerge as parliamentary figures consider taking formal action against the prince, with mounting concerns about his financial arrangements and his association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Labour MP says Prince Andrew ‘has done more for republicanism than Cromwell’ in scathing attack
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Mr Stringer’s comparison invokes the historical figure who orchestrated the English Revolution and the execution of Charles I in 1649.
Cromwell subsequently governed the English Republic as Lord Protector until he died in 1658, during which period he notably prohibited Christmas celebrations.
The Labour MP argued that the late Queen Elizabeth II had cultivated near-universal backing for the monarchy throughout her reign, winning over even those with republican sympathies.
However, Mr Stringer contended that Prince Andrew has “almost completely undone that work”, eroding the widespread support his mother had carefully built over decades.
Parliamentary leaders are now considering compelling the prince to appear before them for questioning about his Windsor residence arrangements.
Royal Lodge, a 30-bedroom property where Prince Andrew resides, has reportedly generated no rental payments from him for more than two decades.
This potential parliamentary summons would focus on examining the lease terms for the Windsor estate property.
The threat of formal questioning represents an escalation in parliamentary scrutiny of Andrew’s living arrangements and financial affairs, adding to the pressure he faces over various controversies.
Oliver Cromwell governed the English Republic as Lord Protector until he died in 1658
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MPs are also advancing legislation that would grant Parliament the authority to remove titles from royals who have brought the institution into disrepute.
This proposed Bill represents a significant constitutional development, potentially allowing elected representatives to intervene directly in matters of royal honours.
The legislative push comes amid persistent questions surrounding Prince Andrew’s financial affairs and his connections to Jeffrey Epstein.
These unresolved issues continue to fuel parliamentary concern about the prince’s conduct and its impact on the monarchy’s reputation.
The combination of threatened summons and proposed title-stripping powers signals an unprecedented level of parliamentary intervention in royal matters.