The Prince and Princess of Wales issued their comments as fresh revelations continue to engulf the Royal Family and the government. It marks the first time their position on the crisis has been made known.
As Prince William travelled to Saudi Arabia for a three-day tour — beginning with a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman — Kensington Palace made clear that the couple wanted their stance to be understood before the visit began.
A spokesperson said: “I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations.
“Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.”
The timing suggested a desire to draw a line under questions surrounding the scandal so William could concentrate on what is expected to be one of the most diplomatically significant overseas trips of his royal career.
Echoing the King and Queen
William and Kate’s remarks mirror the position previously expressed by King Charles and Queen Camilla, who were the first senior royals to speak publicly in support of those abused by Jeffrey Epstein.
Last October, Charles and Camilla said: “Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”
Since the release of millions of documents by US authorities linked to Epstein, much of the Royal Family’s work has been overshadowed by renewed controversy.
Fresh Allegations Against Prince Andrew
The document release reignited scrutiny of Prince Andrew, with a series of new allegations emerging. Police have also launched an investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office.
Among the claims are that a second woman was allegedly sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and that Andrew and Epstein once asked an exotic dancer to participate in a threesome at Epstein’s Florida home. There are also allegations that Andrew shared confidential reports from official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore while serving as the UK’s trade envoy.
The former duke, who was stripped of his titles by the King last year, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Last week, he left Royal Lodge and relocated to the Sandringham estate.