Newly released documents show that Queen Elizabeth II pressed for the Duke of York to be appointed as a trade envoy in 2000, despite no formal vetting being carried out. A memo from Sir David Wright, chief executive of British Trade International, to then foreign secretary Robin Cook stated that the late Queen was 'very keen' for Andrew to take on a 'prominent role in the promotion of national interests'.
The documents, released after ministers agreed to publish the files in February, indicate that Andrew was expected to succeed the Duke of Kent as a special representative for trade, with duties including regional trips, two to three overseas visits per year, and hosting prominent trade visitors in London. No evidence of formal due diligence or security vetting was found, a fact confirmed by junior trade minister Sir Chris Bryant in a written statement.
Criticism of the appointment has emerged, with Labour MP Sarah Owen stating that 'everyone should be subjected to the same due diligence, with no exceptions.' The Liberal Democrats described the lack of vetting as 'shocking and deeply troubling'. The release comes amid accusations that Andrew shared sensitive information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as trade envoy from 2001 to 2011.
Another document revealed that Andrew's aide informed ministers the prince preferred to visit 'sophisticated countries' and attend ballet over theatre, but should not be offered private golfing functions abroad. Andrew was nicknamed 'Air Miles Andy' for his globe-trotting and golfing habits.
Andrew stepped down from the role in 2011 after controversy over his friendship with Epstein. He later faced a civil lawsuit from Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was trafficked to him, and settled the case for millions in 2022. Thames Valley Police continue to investigate his conduct.
