In a poll of Royal Central readers, a huge majority of respondents say that the Duke of York made the right decision to stand down as a working royal as criticism of the 59-year-old prince intensifies.
Of the 548 people polled, 95% say Prince Andrew is right to stand down from conducting engagements ‘for the foreseeable future.’
Just 5% of respondents think he should have carried on with a ‘business as usual’ mantra.
The Duke of York has faced significant criticism following the broadcast of his 50 minute interview with Newsnight over the weekend, in which he said he did not regret his friendship with convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Now, the pressure has become too much for him to continue, with businesses cutting ties to the prince, and the public demanding that he steps down.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Andrew said that he asked The Queen for permission to step back from public duties, action she agreed to support.
The Duke also confirmed that he would be willing to speak to law enforcement officials if required.
Prince Andrew’s statement in full:
“It has become clear to me over the last few days that the circumstances relating to my former association with Jeffrey Epstein has become a major disruption to my family’s work and the valuable work going on in the many organisations and charities that I am proud to support.
“Therefore, I have asked Her Majesty if I may step back from public duties for the foreseeable future, and she has given her permission.
“I continue to unequivocally regret my ill-judged association with Jeffrey Epstein. His suicide has left many unanswered questions, particularly for his victims, and I deeply sympathise with everyone who has been affected and wants some form of closure. I can only hope that, in time, they will be able to rebuild their lives. Of course, I am willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency with their investigations, if required.”
