Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Accused of Misusing Public Funds During Trade Envoy Role
Retired civil servants have made explosive claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former prince, allegedly used taxpayers' money to pay for massages and excessive travel costs while serving as the UK's trade envoy. These allegations emerge as police continue their investigation into the disgraced royal, who was arrested last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Claims of Inappropriate Expenses and Overruled Objections
According to a BBC report, one former civil servant initially refused to cover the cost of a massage for Andrew but was overruled by senior staff. The whistleblower stated, "I thought it was wrong... I'd said we mustn't pay it, but we ended up paying it anyway." A separate former Whitehall official, who oversaw finances, told the broadcaster they had "absolutely no doubt" about the claim's authenticity, having reviewed similar expenses from Andrew's overseas trips.
In a 2009 video-taped interview under oath, Jeffrey Epstein's former Florida housekeeper, Juan Alessi, claimed Andrew would have "daily massages" during visits. The whistleblower who spoke to the BBC remarked, "I can't say it would have stopped him, but we should have flagged that something was wrong."
Excessive Spending and Lack of Accountability
Another Whitehall official alleged that Andrew claimed for excessive flights, hotel rooms, and charges for his entourage, stating, "I couldn't believe it... it was like it wasn't real money, they weren't spending any of their own money." These claims highlight concerns over financial oversight and accountability during his tenure as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment.
Police Investigation and Political Scrutiny
Police searches of Andrew's former home, Royal Lodge in Windsor, Berkshire, were expected to continue into Monday following his arrest. The former prince spent 11 hours in custody on his 66th birthday while officers searched his Sandringham Estate property in Norfolk before he was released under investigation. He is accused of sharing sensitive information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his time as trade envoy.
Ahead of opposition day in the House of Commons, the Liberal Democrats indicated they may seek a debate to further scrutinise Andrew's former role. A party source said they were considering how to use opposition day to "secure more transparency and parliamentary scrutiny." On Monday, a Liberal Democrats source added, "This is a complex and fast moving situation, and the police must be allowed to get on with their important work. But we are carefully considering how best to use our opposition day to secure more transparency and parliamentary scrutiny around Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and his role as trade envoy, in the public interest."
Calls for Wider Probe and Legislative Implications
Calls have grown from public figures for a broader investigation into Andrew's past dealings with Epstein. He has denied any wrongdoing over his links to the convicted sex offender but has not directly responded to the latest allegations. Despite being stripped of his title last year, Andrew remains eighth in line to the throne, and an Act of Parliament would be required to remove him and prevent him from ever becoming king.
Sir Keir Starmer's Government is understood to be considering introducing such legislation once police conclude their investigation into the King's disgraced brother. Meanwhile, on Sunday, the Prince and Princess of Wales made their first joint public appearance since the arrest, attending the Bafta awards. During the event, Prince William mentioned he had yet to see the play "Hamnet," adding, "I need to be in quite a calm state and I'm not at the moment."
