Epstein Emails Blame 'Charles' on Day Prince Andrew Lost Trade Role
Newly unearthed emails have revealed that disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein blamed "Charles" on the very day Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor lost his position as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment. The correspondence, dated 21st July 2011, shows Epstein writing in response to an associate's message about television coverage, stating: "I assume he knows that this is Charles' doing." This explosive revelation adds a new layer to the long-running scandal surrounding the former prince's ties to the convicted paedophile.
Context of the Email Exchange
The email was part of a broader exchange where an associate noted "Lots of TV coverage on PA and always big feature on you. Insane," with "PA" understood to refer to Prince Andrew. Epstein's response implicating "Charles"—widely interpreted as referring to the then-Prince of Wales, now King Charles III—came as Andrew officially stepped down from his trade envoy role after a decade of service. This role had granted him significant access to global government and business leaders, but increasing scrutiny over his relationship with Epstein, a convicted sex offender, forced his departure.
Scrutiny and Stepping Down
Prince Andrew served as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment from 2001 to 2011, a position that involved high-level diplomatic and economic engagements worldwide. However, his continued association with Epstein, highlighted by a controversial photo of the two walking in New York, led to mounting criticism. Amid this pressure, he announced his resignation on 21st July 2011, the same day Epstein sent the email blaming "Charles." The three million files released by the US Department of Justice provide fragments of personal conversations from that period, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics.
Further Email Insights
In other emails from that day, Epstein discussed Andrew's departure with friends, suggesting it might be beneficial. He wrote, "I'm sure this is good for him, he will now be free," indicating a perception that leaving the official role could offer new opportunities. Additionally, Epstein forwarded a news article about Andrew's stepping down to Ghislaine Maxwell, who inquired "why?" Epstein responded, "I think he wants to make money," hinting at possible financial motivations behind the move.
Recent Developments and Royal Response
The email revelations come amid ongoing legal troubles for Prince Andrew. He was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office on his 66th birthday, undergoing 11 hours of questioning before being released under investigation. In a statement last week, King Charles emphasised that Buckingham Palace would fully cooperate with police if approached, stating: "What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course." Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing and is reportedly staying on an estate in Sandringham, having not been seen since his police questioning in Aylsham, Norfolk.
