- Anne’s ‘extremely unpredictable’ action contradicts King Charles’ orders
- Mike Tindall supports his mother-in-law as the royal family steps down
- Andrew’s arrest leaves Anne with a major dilemma, King’s sister takes action
Princess Anne, known for her stoic and pragmatic approach to issues particularly related to the monarchy, appears to have taken an “extremely unpredictable” step following the Andrew-Epstein scandal.
In a shocking turn of events, as all royals distanced themselves from shamed Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Anne had privately contacted her second brother, with the support of her son-in-law, Mike Tindall.
The Princess Royal maintained her strong stance earlier this week as the royal family gathered at Westminster Abbey for the Commonwealth service, and ignored anti-monarchy protesters who swarmed the area.
King Charles’ sister believes that private matters relating to members of the royal family should remain out of public view, a policy adhered to by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
However, it became increasingly difficult for the royal family to remain indifferent when humiliating photos and emails were exposed in the Epstein files. Anne was forced to admit it was now becoming “more difficult” for the royal family to defend Andrew, according to royal expert Richard Kay.
King Charles has made it clear that Andrew is being ousted from the royal fold, stripped of his titles and honors, and other members are also advised to keep their distance from the Yorks, especially the strong British feelings towards the ex-prince.
However, this seems like a slight act of defiance if Anne has stayed in touch.
“Shaken by his arrest, I understand that she continued to be in contact with him,” the royal expert said. “Despite this familiar, gruff approach she inherited from Prince Philip, Anne worries about Andrew’s mental well-being as his world has imploded.”
He continued: “Funnily enough, this was encouraged by his son-in-law, former rugby player Mike Tindall, who perhaps has more real-world experience than any other member of the royal family.”
Insiders insist the Princess Royal understands that “the risk of reputational damage to the institution would be considerable” if members of the royal family maintained links with Andrew. In addition, she supports King Charles’ decision and remains “devoted” to the monarch.
