As British police continue investigating Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor over allegations of misconduct in public office, a separate narrative has emerged involving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who are reportedly encouraging Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie to publicly address the mounting scandals surrounding their parents.
According to a report cited by the Daily Express and attributed to Closer magazine, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex believe the York sisters should "tell their side" of the story. The claim comes at a moment when renewed scrutiny over Andrew's past associations-particularly following U.S. Justice Department document releases-has intensified public and parliamentary pressure.
Thames Valley Police confirmed Andrew's arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office and later said he was released under investigation. The BBC reported that the force declined to name the suspect "as per national guidance" and warned of contempt of court risks as the inquiry proceeds. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated: "We recognise significant public interest in this and will provide updates at the appropriate time."
The charge under investigation is serious. Misconduct in public office is a common law offence in the U.K., triable only on indictment and carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Prosecutors must establish willful abuse or neglect of public duty, a threshold that requires detailed factual findings.
The controversy is compounded by reporting from CBS News, which said emails included in millions of documents released by the U.S. Justice Department on Jan. 30 appeared to show Andrew sharing confidential reports connected to his former role as a trade envoy. Andrew has consistently denied misconduct.
Against this legal backdrop, the alleged advice from Harry and Meghan introduces a new dimension. The unnamed source cited by Closer magazine was quoted as saying: "Meghan and Harry both feel like it's a great idea for Beatrice and Eugenie to tell their side of things. They can clarify exactly how close their parents were to him at the very least."
The same report suggests the Sussexes have offered practical assistance, including introductions to publishers and agents who could "help them put together a deal," adding that the sisters could be "earning a lot of money in the process." The source also described the prospect as "daunting" and warned it could "blow the whole Royal Family apart."
The Sussexes themselves have firsthand experience with public narrative management. In 2021, they gave a widely viewed interview to Oprah Winfrey after stepping back from royal duties, reshaping global perceptions of their relationship with the institution.
Whether Beatrice and Eugenie would pursue a similar path remains speculative. The reports are based on unnamed sources and have not been independently confirmed by palace representatives. Yet the mere suggestion underscores the strategic tension facing younger royals: remain silent and preserve institutional continuity, or speak out and attempt to control the narrative in a media environment shaped by memoirs and streaming deals.
