Prince Andrew announces he's stepping back from public duties following Jeffrey Epstein scandal

Prince Andrew has announced this morning he will be stepping back from all royal duties for the "foreseeable future" - with the Queen's permission.

The Duke of York says he came to the decision because of the scandal surrounding his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as he feels it has caused "major disruption to his family's work" as well as "the valuable work going on in the many organisations and charities that he is proud to support".

In a statement, he said: "It has become clear to me over the last few days that the circumstances relating to my former association with Jeffrey Epstein has become a major disruption to my family's work and the valuable work going on in the many organisations and charities that I am proud to support.

"Therefore, I have asked Her Majesty if I may step back from public duties for the foreseeable future, and she has given her permission. I continue to unequivocally regret my ill-judged association with Jeffrey Epstein.

"His suicide has left many unanswered questions, particularly for his victims, and I deeply sympathise with everyone who has been affected and wants some form of closure. I can only hope that, in time, they will be able to rebuild their lives. Of course, I am willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency."

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The announcement comes following a high-profile interview with BBC Newsnight, which was broadcast over the weekend, where he discussed his friendship with Epstein.

The disastrous interview with Emily Maitlis caused a furious public backlash, as he seemed to show no remorse for his close association with the convicted sex offender who had abused many underage girls.

Multiple companies have cut ties with Prince Andrew, including Standard Chartered Bank and KPMG, following the scandal.