Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor: UK Government to consider removing Andrew from royal line of succession

It follows the former prince's arrest on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was held in custody for 11 hours before being released under investigation.

Speaking to the BBC, Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the move, which would prevent Andrew from ever becoming King, was the "right thing to do".

The former Duke of York is still eighth in line to the throne, despite being stripped of his title last year amid pressure over his ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Any changes to the line of succession would also require the agreement of other countries which share the UK monarch, including Australia, Canada and Jamaica.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Any Questions programme, Pollard said the UK government had been working with Buckingham Palace on the plans to stop the King's brother from "potentially being a heartbeat away from the throne".

He said it was "something that I hope will enjoy cross party support, but it’s right that that is something that only happens when the police investigation concludes".

Chief Secretary to the Treasury James Murray told Sky News: “The Government is considering any further steps that might be required, and we’re not ruling anything out.

“But at this stage, it would be inappropriate for us to go any further because there is a live police investigation under way.”

Following Andrew’s arrest, the King said in a statement that “the law must take its course” and the police have “our full and wholehearted support and co-operation”.

Andrew has denied any wrongdoing over his Epstein links, but has not directly responded to the latest allegations.

Searches are continuing at Andrew’s previous home - the Sandringham Estate - on Saturday.