British police are reviewing allegations that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, passed sensitive government trade information to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein while serving as the U.K.’s special representative for international trade.
Thames Valley Police, which covers Windsor and its surrounding areas, confirmed Monday that it is examining claims stemming from newly released U.S. Justice Department documents tied to Epstein. The force said: “We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures.”
The allegations center on emails from 2010 and 2011 that appear to show Mountbatten-Windsor forwarding confidential reports and briefings to Epstein shortly after receiving them from his staff. The material includes summaries of official trade visits to Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong and Shenzhen, as well as a Christmas Eve briefing on investment opportunities linked to the reconstruction of Helmand Province in Afghanistan. In one instance, documents sent by his special adviser were reportedly forwarded to Epstein within minutes.
Under the terms governing the role of trade envoy, officials are bound by strict confidentiality rules that extend beyond their time in office and may fall under the Official Secrets Acts. Mountbatten-Windsor held the post from 2001 to 2011.
The matter was reported to police by Graham Smith, chief executive of the anti-monarchy group Republic, which has also said it has asked lawyers to consider a private prosecution related to alleged misconduct in public office. Smith argued the claims mirror similar allegations involving other public figures named in the Epstein files.
The renewed scrutiny follows the release of millions of pages of Epstein-related documents by U.S. authorities, intensifying focus on Mountbatten-Windsor’s long-standing relationship with the financier, which continued even after Epstein’s 2008 conviction. Mountbatten-Windsor has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing connected to Epstein. Additionally, the fallout has further strained ties with the royal family. King Charles III stripped his younger brother of royal titles last year and recently required him to vacate Royal Lodge near Windsor Castle. He is now living temporarily on the king’s privately owned Sandringham estate.
Buckingham Palace said King Charles remains deeply troubled by the allegations. A palace spokesperson said “The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct. While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect. As was previously stated, Their Majesties’ thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse.’
Prince William and Princess Catherine also issued their first response to the latest disclosures, with a spokesperson saying: “I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.”
A representative for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
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