Republic has welcomed news that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested.

The arrest is in response to a crime report sent to Thames Valley Police by Republic's CEO Graham Smith.

The decision was also likely influenced by Republic's pursuit of a private prosecution.

Graham Smith said today:

"Make no mistake, this is a result of Republic's action."

"We reported Andrew to the police when others were unwilling to act. Republic has been instigating a private prosecution when the police were reluctant to investigate."

"Republic's lawyers will continue to investigate related alleged offences and provide information to the police over the coming weeks and months."

"There is reason to believe that in relation to some offences other senior royals may be material witnesses and may have also committed offences."

"The police must follow all evidence wherever it leads."

"In the meantime Charles and William need to speak up and admit to whatever they have known, when and why they continued to protect Andrew."