The House of Commons has passed a humble address motion requiring the government to release all papers relating to the creation of the role of special representative for trade and investment and Prince Andrew’s appointment to that role. The motion, brought by the Liberal Democrats, was passed without a division, meaning the government is now obliged to comply.
The papers to be disclosed include documents from UK Trade and Investment, the Foreign Office, the Cabinet Office, and the prime minister’s office, covering advice on Prince Andrew’s suitability, due diligence, vetting, and relevant communications. Trade minister Chris Bryant confirmed the government’s intention to comply “as soon as is practical within the law,” but noted that release would be guided by advice from prosecuting authorities.
Bryant also told MPs that the government is working “at pace” on legislation to remove Prince Andrew from the line of succession, though he could not commit to a specific date. He quipped that, like Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music, he had confidence that “the act of succession will come round at pace.”
The debate followed calls from some MPs for a public inquiry into the matter. Bryant expressed caution, recalling that a previous two-part inquiry into phone hacking was never completed because the police investigation dragged on. He emphasised that it is for the courts, not Parliament, to find people guilty, and urged respect for sub judice rules to avoid prejudicing any trial.
