LONDON (AP) — Confidential documents released by the U.K. government on Thursday reveal that Queen Elizabeth II was "very keen" for her son, Prince Andrew, to serve as a UK trade envoy. The papers, published months after lawmakers criticized the Duke of York for prioritizing his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein over national interests, show the late monarch's strong support for his appointment.
Royal Endorsement
In a letter, the head of Britain's trade body wrote: "The Queen is very keen that the Duke of York should take on a prominent role in the promotion of national interests." This endorsement confirms long-held beliefs that the Queen had a soft spot for Andrew, an empathy that may have influenced her lack of decisiveness in addressing allegations linking him to Epstein.
Lawmakers Demand Transparency
Lawmakers approved a motion in February demanding the release of these documents after Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested on charges related to allegations that he shared government reports with Epstein while serving as trade envoy. Trade Minister Chris Bryant stated in a written statement that "we have found no evidence that a formal due diligence or vetting process was undertaken" before Andrew's appointment. He added that this was "understandable since this new appointment was a continuation of the royal family's involvement in trade and investment promotion work following the Duke of Kent's decision to relinquish his duties."
Ongoing Investigation
Bryant also confirmed that the government is cooperating with Thames Valley Police on their investigation into Mountbatten-Windsor for possible misconduct in public office. Andrew served as a special envoy for international trade from 2001 to 2011, when he was forced to resign due to concerns about his links to questionable figures in Libya and Azerbaijan.
Fallout from Epstein Scandal
The release of these documents follows the U.S. Justice Department's publication of millions of pages related to Epstein, revealing how the financier used a network of wealthy and powerful friends to exploit young women and girls. The scandal has had a profound impact in the U.K., raising questions about the influence of the aristocracy, senior politicians, and influential business owners—collectively known as "the Establishment." Andrew has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He was stripped of his royal title last year as King Charles III sought to distance the monarchy from the Epstein scandal.
