MPs are set to meet on Tuesday to discuss a potential inquiry into Prince Andrew's decade-long tenure as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment, following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The cross-party business and trade committee will examine his role from 2001 to 2011, which ended amid controversies including his ties to repressive regimes and his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Sources familiar with his work as a trade envoy described him as a liability, citing a brusque personal style and a tendency to blur public and private interests. One senior figure noted that Andrew repeatedly pressed ministers for a more significant government role, saying, 'He approached ministers personally, asking, “Can you find a bigger role for me?”' Another official recalled incidents where he would disappear for hours during trade missions and return with luxury items like Rolex watches.
Concerns were also raised about the cost and oversight of his trips, with unclear funding arrangements between the Foreign Office, the business department, and the palace. Weeks before a high-level UK trade visit to China in 2010, Andrew made an unannounced trip there, causing frustration among government officials. The committee may investigate whether more could have been done to challenge his behaviour and whether any actions crossed into illegality.
Peter Mandelson, the former business secretary who reportedly pushed for Andrew's envoy appointment, is separately under police investigation over allegations of leaking market-sensitive information to Epstein. Downing Street is reviewing documents related to Mandelson's role, with a first tranche expected to be released next week following a Commons vote.
