Alison Hammond Faces Viewer Backlash Over Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrest Comment
ITV This Morning presenter Alison Hammond has drawn significant criticism from viewers following what many described as a "weird" remark she made live on air regarding the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The 51-year-old Birmingham-born presenter was co-hosting the popular morning programme with Dermot O'Leary when news broke about the former royal's arrest.
Arrest Details and Hammond's Controversial Comment
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the disgraced ex-royal who has been divested of his titles, was arrested at his temporary residence on the Sandringham estate on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest on Thursday following allegations linked to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.
What particularly struck Hammond was the timing of the arrest - occurring on Andrew's 66th birthday. The former Big Brother contestant commented during the broadcast: "They could've done it yesterday, the day before his birthday!" She added: "It is developing, we don't know very much beyond what you've just said. All we know is that police can tell you."
Immediate Viewer Reaction on Social Media
Almost instantly, viewers of the ITV programme took to social media platforms to question Hammond's unusual perspective on the situation. One viewer stated: "Alison saying 'surely they didn't have to arrest him on his birthday'. What a weird comment about an 'alleged' predator," as reported by the Mirror.
Another viewer remarked sarcastically: "Imagine if Alison was a police officer. Her boss: 'We're arresting Prince Andrew in the morning' Alison: 'We can't be doing that bab, it's his birthday tomorrow, he's probably made plans'." A third viewer was less charitable, labelling Hammond a "moron" for suggesting that police should have considered the timing relative to Andrew's birthday celebrations.
Background of the Investigation
The BBC reported that laptops, phones and communication devices could potentially be confiscated from Royal residences as part of the ongoing investigation. Thames Valley Police had previously stated they were examining allegations that a woman was trafficked to the UK by Jeffrey Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, along with claims he shared sensitive information with the paedophile while serving as the UK's trade envoy.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated: "Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office. It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence."
Andrew's Recent Movements and Living Situation
Andrew was asked to leave the Royal Lodge in Windsor earlier this month, relocating to the King's Norfolk estate under the cover of darkness to avoid drawing attention. He is currently believed to be residing in Wood Farm Cottage while Marsh Farm, speculated to be his more long-term accommodation, continues to undergo essential renovations.
Within days of Andrew's arrival in Norfolk, local residents made their feelings known about the disgraced royal moving into the area. Reports suggest Andrew was "appalled" that his "cramped" new home has just five bedrooms, with a source recently informing the Daily Mail about his dissatisfaction with the living arrangements.
The royal correspondent for the BBC, Sean Coughlan, commented on the unprecedented nature of the situation: "This is another extraordinary development in what has been an extraordinary story. It's hard to think of any precedent for the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the King's brother."
