The British royal declined a request from Democratic lawmakers to answer questions regarding his relationship with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, sparking criticism from committee members.
LONDON — Prince Andrew has formally rejected a request to testify before the United States Congress regarding his links to Jeffrey Epstein, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Democratic lawmakers investigating the late financier’s sex trafficking network.
A group of 16 Democrats from the House of Representatives had sent a letter to the Duke of York requesting a transcribed interview as part of their inquiry into Epstein, who died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial. The lawmakers urged Andrew, the younger brother of King Charles III, to respond by November 20.
According to the committee members, the lack of a response by the deadline has been interpreted as an open refusal.
“Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s silence in the face of a demand for testimony speaks volumes,” said Representatives Robert Garcia and Suhas Subramanyan, who are part of the oversight committee leading the probe.
In a statement released on Friday, the lawmakers asserted that public records and the testimony of Virginia Giuffre—who accused the prince of sexual abuse—raise serious questions that he must answer. “He continues to hide,” they added.
The pressure on the Duke to cooperate has intensified in recent days. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer added his voice to the calls for transparency. When asked if the former royal should testify, Starmer stated: “Those with relevant information in relation to such cases should provide that evidence to those who need it.”
The U.S. congressional committee is analyzing the scope of Epstein’s crimes and seeking to clarify the potential complicity of high-profile figures. However, Congress lacks the legal authority to compel foreign citizens to testify, limiting its ability to force Andrew’s appearance.
Committee Chairman James Comer, a Republican, has not yet commented on whether he would support issuing a formal subpoena. The current balance of power requires Democrats to seek Republican backing for actions directed at foreign witnesses.
Despite the refusal, the Democratic members emphasized that their investigation would proceed. “Our work will continue with or without him, and we will hold accountable everyone involved in these crimes, regardless of their wealth, status, or political party,” Garcia and Subramanyan declared. “We will get justice for the victims.”
Prince Andrew stepped back from royal duties in 2019 following a disastrous BBC interview about his friendship with Epstein. In 2022, he settled a civil sexual assault lawsuit brought by Giuffre for an undisclosed sum, widely reported to be around £12 million, though he admitted no liability.
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