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Thames Valley Police assess complaint by anti-monarchy group
Thames Valley Police are reviewing a complaint filed by the anti-monarchy organization Republic concerning allegations that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential information with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Emails reveal details of alleged disclosures
Recently released U.S. government emails suggest that the former prince, who served as the UK's trade envoy from 2001 to 2011, forwarded reports of official visits to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Vietnam, along with sensitive investment opportunities. The correspondence, reviewed by the BBC, indicates that on 7 October 2010, Andrew shared details of upcoming trade missions to Epstein.
On 30 November of the same year, he allegedly sent Epstein official reports of those visits-compiled by his then-special assistant, Amit Patel-just five minutes after receiving them. In a separate 2010 exchange, the former prince appears to have forwarded a confidential briefing on investment prospects in Afghanistan's post-war reconstruction, an effort backed by British armed forces and UK government funding.
Official guidelines on confidentiality
Trade envoys are bound by a duty of confidentiality regarding sensitive, commercial, or political information related to their official duties, even after leaving the role. The Official Secrets Acts of 1911 and 1989 also apply to such disclosures. Despite no longer being a civil servant, Andrew's role as trade envoy required adherence to these standards.
"However, the role of a Trade Envoy carries with it a duty of confidentiality in relation to information received. This may include sensitive, commercial, or political information shared about relevant markets/visits."
Official terms of reference for trade envoys
Reactions and denials
Sir Vince Cable, who served as business secretary at the time, stated he was unaware of Andrew sharing Afghanistan investment details with Epstein, calling it the first he had heard of the matter. More than a year later, Andrew allegedly contacted Epstein again to highlight a new investment opportunity with a private equity firm he had visited the previous week.
All these exchanges occurred after Epstein's 2008 conviction for child sex offences. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing that his inclusion in the Epstein files does not imply misconduct.
Police response and next steps
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson confirmed receiving the complaint and stated they are evaluating the information under standard procedures. The former Duke of York has been contacted for comment but has not yet responded.
