As you may know, the campaign group Republic has reported Prince Charles and his former aide, Michael Fawcett, to the Metropolitan Police on suspicion of breaching the Honours (Prevention of Abuses) Act 1925. I understand they are currently assessing the information provided to them. As this is a matter for the relevant authorities to investigate, I hope you will understand that it would not be appropriate for me to comment on this case, except to say that any process must completely independent and conducted thoroughly..

With regard to the allegations against Prince Andrew, I believe everyone must co-operate with law enforcement authorities when required to do so, regardless of who you are. Nobody is above the law, and it’s vital that the Royal Family are held to the same standards.

Likewise I was shocked by the undercover investigation into Prince Michael of Kent. It calls into question his position as senior colonel of the King’s Royal Hussars, especially when those serving in the regiment have only recently finished a deployment to deter Russian forces on NATO’s eastern borders.

As you know, the Royal Household is not included in the Freedom of Information Act’s definition of a public authority. I know there have been concerns that the Act includes an exemption for communications with the Queen, other members of the Royal Family and the Royal Household, and the awarding of Honours by the Crown. I understand that the Government currently has no plans to change this, but I agree it should consider the points you raise.

I believe the monarchy is a source of deep pride for many people in our country. All surveys of public opinion on this issue show clear support for maintaining it. However, I appreciate that in light of recent events many people are questioning the integrity of this institution. Therefore it is clear that the Royal Family will need to work to fully represent our whole nation.