EXPLODE ON AIR: ‘Disastrous’ BBC interview turns into a furious row as debate about Prince Andrew angers Miliband

BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg  turned tense as Victoria Derbyshire questioned Energy Secretary on Prince Andrew relinquishing his Duke of York title, as she asked whether Parliament would take steps to officially remove his titles. The line of questioning comes after the King’s brother announced on Friday night that he would relinquish his remaining royal titles, including Duke of York, and public duties amid renewed scrutiny of his ties to Epstein and an alleged Chinese spy.

Derbyshire asked: He has been forced to announce he is relinquishing his titles, is that enough?” Miliband replied: “These are deeply concerning allegations that we are seeing in the papers, and I think all of our thoughts will be with the victims of Jeffrey Epstein.

“I think the right thing to say as a government minister is this is be a matter for the royal family,” as Victoria asked incredulously: “Is it?”

Miliband continued: “Yeah, I think so. It’s right he has relinquished his titles, I think the royals will have to make their own decisions about what other steps might be taken, and it is up to them.”

Derbyshire pressed on: “Officially though, he will still retain the dukedom, it could be removed by an act of parliament, would you support legislation to do that?”

Miliband firmly said: “We’re going to be guided by the royal family,” as Derbyshire asked again: “But on a personal level, would you support legislation to remove…”

The Labour minister said: “I think it’s right on a personal level that he is relinquishing the titles…” as Victoria insisted: “You’re evading my question!”

Miliband looked shocked as he said: “No I’m not evading it, I just think we’ll be guided by the royal family, they’ve said they don’t want to take up parliamentary time with this, there are lots of other things parliement are discussing.”

Fans rushed to social media to comment on the clash, as one said: “Another car crash, as another said: “Derbyshire needs to hold Miliband’s feet to the fire. A very weak interview with this nutter.”

A third raged: “Ed Miliband refuses to support taking away Prince Andrew’s dukedom. Depressing and disgusting.”

Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg continues next Sunday at 9am on BBC1.