MPs to discuss inquiry into role of trade envoys after Andrew arrest

Members of the Business and Trade Committee in the UK Parliament are scheduled to convene on Tuesday to consider launching an investigation into the role of UK trade envoys. This move follows the recent arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former prince, who was taken into custody by Thames Valley Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was detained for approximately 11 hours before being released under investigation.

While the inquiry could address concerns regarding Andrew’s alleged sharing of confidential government documents during his time as a trade envoy, committee members intend to avoid centering their discussions on him personally due to the ongoing police investigation. Simultaneously, the government is reportedly exploring legislation that could remove Andrew from the line of succession to the throne. At present, he stands eighth in line, a position increasingly scrutinized amid mounting pressure related to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Andrew has consistently denied any improper actions related to Epstein. However, he has not responded to specific allegations arising from the US release of millions of files connected to Epstein’s case earlier this year. In recent days, authorities have been carrying out searches at Andrew’s former residence, the Royal Lodge in Windsor. Multiple unmarked police vehicles were spotted near the property, and Thames Valley Police are expected to continue their search operations through Monday.

The committee’s forthcoming discussions will also address broader questions about the appointment process and accountability mechanisms for UK trade envoys in general. Currently, there are 32 such envoys operating across six continents, tasked with supporting the Department for Business and Trade’s growth objectives. Their responsibilities include engaging with foreign governments, leading trade missions, and interacting with UK businesses. Liam Byrne, chair of the Business and Trade Committee, emphasized that MPs are treating these allegations with “acute seriousness” and are considering the possibility of a formal investigation into Andrew’s conduct in his envoy role.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Luke Pollard has publicly stated on BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions programme that removing Andrew from the royal line of succession would be “the right thing to do,” regardless of the police inquiry’s outcome. He noted that the government is collaborating with Buckingham Palace on this plan and hopes to secure backing across political parties. Such a change would require an act of Parliament, approval from both Houses, and the King’s royal assent. Additionally, support would be needed from the 14 Commonwealth realms over which the monarch reigns. Historically, the last removal from the succession was in 1936 following King Edward VIII’s abdication. Political parties including the Liberal Democrats and the SNP have expressed willingness to support legislation aimed at removing Andrew from succession rights.

Commenting on the current situation, historian David Olusoga told BBC Newsnight there appears to be “a desperate desire within government and within the palace to draw a firewall… between this crisis and the wider monarchy,” highlighting efforts to contain the fallout from the scandal

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