Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the disgraced former Duke of York, was arrested on his 66th birthday last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to allegedly sharing secrets of official visits with Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as a UK trade envoy between 2001 and 2011. Amid ongoing police investigations, royal aides have reportedly banned him from horse riding on his Sandringham estate, citing concerns that it would present a “bad look.” This restriction, along with the recent revocation of his gun license and a severely reduced staff, has left Andrew effectively confined to his residence, accompanied only by his seven dogs.

The controversy has sparked political backlash, with MPs demanding transparency regarding Andrew’s appointment and conduct as a trade envoy. Trade minister Sir Chris Bryant and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey criticized Andrew’s behavior as emblematic of deeper issues within the British establishment, calling for the release of documents related to his role. Additionally, allegations surfaced that Andrew billed UK taxpayers for massage services during his envoy tenure, which he denies. The government is also considering legislation to remove him from the royal line of succession, a move supported by Commonwealth countries including Australia and New Zealand.