Presenter Alison Hammond sparks backlash for comment about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest

Alison Hammond has come under fire on social media for comments she made on UK TV earlier today (19 February).

The ITV star and This Morning presenter, 51, discussed the breaking news story live on air with co-host Dermot O’Leary during today's (19 February) instalment of the breakfast show.

For those who aren’t up to date with the news, earlier today, on his 66th birthday, the former Prince and Duke of York was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest following allegations made against Andrew after the release of millions of pages of files related to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Andrew, who has always denied any allegations of wrongdoing regarding Epstein, is the first senior royal in modern history to be arrested.

The force had previously said it was reviewing allegations that a woman was trafficked to the UK by Epstein to have a sexual encounter with Andrew, as well as claims he shared sensitive information with the financer while serving as the UK’s trade envoy.

Alison Hammond made the comment during today's instalment of This Morning (Joe Maher/Getty Images)

As we say, Hammond was live on-air while the news was coming through, and she said: “They could've done it yesterday, the day before his birthday.”

The presenter continued: 'It is developing, we don't know very much beyond what you've just said. All we know is that police can tell you.”

How did social media react?

The comment hasn’t gone down too well, and viewers have made their thoughts clear on social media, as one X user penned: “Alison saying 'surely they didn't have to arrest him on his birthday'. What a weird comment.”

While a second wrote: “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’ #thismorning.”

A third angrily quipped: “Oh yeah, Alison shouldn't spoil his birthday. F***ing moron! #thismorning,” while a fourth chimed in with: “#thismorning Alison saying they shouldn't arrest him on his birthday?"

Following the arrest earlier today, Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: "Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested earlier today on his 66th birthday (Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

"It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time."

King Charles issues a statement

According to the Crown Prosecution Service’s (CPS) website, misconduct in public office carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Andrew’s brother, King Charles III, has also issued a statement, which reads: "I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.

"What now follows is the full, fair, and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities.

"In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation."

The monarch added: "Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter.

"Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all. Charles R."

Tyla has contacted a rep for Hammond and ITV for comment.