King Charles has expressed his “profound concern” over allegations that Prince Andrew shared confidential government reports with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Buckingham Palace said on Monday. The palace confirmed that the King “stands ready to support” Thames Valley Police if they approach the royal household regarding the claims.
Thames Valley Police are assessing allegations that Prince Andrew forwarded official reports from his role as a trade envoy to Epstein in 2010 and 2011. The emails, released by the US Department of Justice, suggest he shared details of trips to Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and Vietnam.
A Buckingham 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.” The spokesperson added that the specific claims are for Prince Andrew to address, but the palace would support police if approached.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are also “deeply concerned” by the revelations, according to a Kensington Palace spokesperson. Prince William is currently on a three-day tour of Saudi Arabia, and the statement was issued to allow him to focus on official engagements.
The emails indicate that in October 2010, Prince Andrew sent Epstein details of his upcoming official trips, and later forwarded reports from his assistant within minutes of receiving them. One email from Christmas Eve 2010 reportedly shared a confidential brief on investment opportunities in Afghanistan’s Helmand province.
The allegations come after earlier claims that a second woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Prince Andrew at his Royal Lodge home in 2010. Buckingham Palace reiterated that the King’s sympathies remain with victims of abuse.
