PRINCE ANDREW could face private prosecution over criminal allegations of sexual assault, corruption and misconduct in public office, Republic campaign group announced today.

A spokesman said that it is instructing a law firm of private prosecution specialists, Edmonds Marshall McMahon, to investigate and if appropriate, commence a private prosecution.

Andrew gave up his dukedom and other titles ahead of the publication of Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoirs earlier this month, whom he denies sexually assaulting.

Republic CEO Graham Smith said: “If not us, then who? It’s a devastating indictment on the UK’s criminal justice system, police and politicians — not to mention the king and heir — that we must resort to a private prosecution.”

Parliament’s public accounts committee meanwhile raised concerns over the value for money of the King’s brother’s living arrangements amid a furore over his “peppercorn” rent at Royal Lodge.

He is reportedly in talks with the King’s representatives about leaving the property voluntarily.