Scandal is a ‘constant sort of gnaw’
PRINCE Andrew described the Epstein scandal as “a constant sore in the family” but believes it has not damaged the Queen.
Asked by the BBC’S Emily Maitlis what effect it has had on his close family, particularly his daughters, Andrew replied: “It has been, what I would describe as a constant sore in the family.
“We all knew him and I think that if we have a conversation about it, it’s…we are all left with the same thing, what on earth happened or how did he get to where he was, what did he do, how did he do it?
“And so it’s just a constant sort of gnaw. I mean this first came out in 2011 and it was a surprise to... to all of us because the photographs were published at a separate time to when I was there and then we sort of questioned what on earth is going on and as a family we discussed it.
“And then in 2015 when the allegations were made in the deposition… the wider family couldn’t be more supportive but the immediate family, it was well, what’s all this about?
“And we all just were at a loss. I don’t believe it’s been damaging to the Queen at all, it has to me and it’s been a constant drip, if you see what I mean, in the background that people want to know.”
He added: “If I was in a position to be able to answer all these questions in a way that gave sensible answers, other than the ones that I have given that gave closure, then I’d love it but I’m afraid I can’t. I’m just not in a position to do so because I’m just as much in the dark as many people.”