The Duke of York is expected to step down as the UK's trade envoy, ending a decade-long tenure marked by repeated controversies, the BBC understands. Prince Andrew's role as the UK Special Representative for International Trade and Investment has faced criticism over his associations and conduct.
Most recently, his friendship with US financier Jeffrey Epstein, jailed for sex offences, sparked calls for his resignation. Epstein had served 18 months for soliciting a minor, and Prince Andrew was photographed with him after his release. Photographs also emerged of the prince with Virginia Roberts, then 17, who claimed she was sexually exploited by Epstein. The prince has denied any involvement and said he cut ties with Epstein.
Earlier controversies included a lunch with a former Tunisian regime figure, a holiday with a Libyan gun smuggler, and claims he used an official trip to try to sell his home. His ex-wife Sarah Ferguson was recorded offering access to him for money, though his private secretary dismissed the allegations as unfounded.
Labour MP Chris Bryant called for the prince's removal, citing his friendship with Saif Gaddafi and the convicted smuggler Tarek Kaituni. Prime Minister David Cameron said he would look into the connections but noted that many had ties to Saif Gaddafi.
Prince Andrew, who took on the unpaid role in 2001 after retiring from the Royal Navy, undertook hundreds of engagements annually. His use of helicopters and trips to ski resorts earned him the nickname 'Airmiles Andy'. His departure is expected in July 2011.
