Queen Elizabeth Papers Backed Andrew as Trade Envoy
Newly released documents suggest Queen Elizabeth II supported appointing Prince Andrew as a UK trade envoy, with papers made public by the government as police continue to examine allegations linked to his past relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Scripps News reported that confidential papers released on Thursday show the late monarch was described as “very keen” for the Duke of York to take on a prominent role promoting national interests, according to a letter from the head of Britain’s trade body.
The documents were published after lawmakers approved a motion in February calling for their release, following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in connection with allegations that he shared government reports with Epstein while serving as trade envoy. Trade Minister Chris Bryant said there was no evidence a formal due diligence or vetting process had been undertaken before the appointment, according to the documents.
The disclosure adds to continuing scrutiny of the royal family’s handling of the scandal, as Queen Elizabeth allegedly faced a “painful” decision over Prince Andrew amid growing public pressure over his role and status.
Andrew, who served as a special envoy for international trade from 2001 to 2011, has denied wrongdoing. The government said it is cooperating with Thames Valley Police on the investigation into possible misconduct in public office, while the publication of the papers is likely to fuel renewed debate about how the monarchy and government managed his appointment and later fallout.
