Recent polling reveals sustained public support for the British monarchy following Prince Andrew’s arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Four in ten Britons believe abolishing the monarchy would lead to a worse future for the country, compared to just 24% who think it would improve.
Prince Andrew’s Unpopularity
Nearly eight in ten people (78%) hold an unfavorable view of Prince Andrew, with fewer than one in ten (9%) viewing him positively. Despite this, the scandal has not eroded overall confidence in the institution.
King Charles Gains Approval
A majority (55%) rate King Charles as performing well in his role, while only 9% consider his leadership poor. On handling the Prince Andrew situation, 38% say the Royal Family managed it effectively, against 26% who view their response negatively.
Popularity Rankings Among Royals
The Prince and Princess of Wales top the favorability charts, with two-thirds of the public holding positive opinions. Princess Anne follows at 59%, ahead of King Charles (50%) and Queen Camilla (34%).
Prince Harry faces significant disapproval, with 42% unfavorable views and around 30% favorable. His wife, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, fares worse, as 50% see her negatively and only 23% positively.
Long-Term Confidence in Monarchy
Strong majorities anticipate the monarchy’s endurance: 77% expect it to remain in place in ten years, 72% in twenty years, and 56% even after fifty years.
Supporters and Critics Weigh In
Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, former Leader of the Commons, affirms the institution’s resilience: “The monarchy is a powerful and enduring symbol of the nation. It is constitutionally important that it flourishes. As it has survived much greater scandals than this one I am sure it will.”
Graham Smith, head of the anti-monarchy group Republic, predicts decline: “I’m quite certain we will become a republic. Asking people to imagine change is very different to asking if they want it. All the indications are that the monarchy is losing support and will continue to do so. People under the age of 50 are increasingly against the royals, and with so much scandal and so little relevance the monarchy is on borrowed time. Whether it has 20 years or 50 years, we will see.”
Ipsos conducted the survey in the aftermath of the controversy.
