Queen Pushed Andrew for Trade Envoy Role

Queen Elizabeth II was 'very keen' for her son Prince Andrew, also known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, to become the UK's special representative for international trade and investment in 2001, according to newly released government files. The documents reveal that the Queen wanted him to take on a prominent role in promoting national interests.

The files were released by the UK government following a request from Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats. They include memos and letters discussing Andrew's appointment as trade envoy, a position he held until 2011.

According to a memo dated February 2000 from then-chief executive of British Trade International Sir David Wright to former foreign secretary Robin Cook, the Queen wished for Andrew to succeed his cousin, the Duke of Kent. The documents also reveal that Andrew's team expressed preferences for visiting 'sophisticated countries' and attending ballet performances over theater during his overseas trips.

The government stated that there is no evidence formal due diligence or security vetting was conducted before Andrew's appointment. Trade Minister Chris Bryant noted this was understandable as the role was a continuation of royal family involvement in trade promotion work. The documents also mention the need for 'careful and sometimes strict media management' regarding his engagements.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has denied any wrongdoing related to Jeffrey Epstein, with whom he had been accused of sharing confidential material. He was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office in February but later released under investigation. The government does not expect to publish more files about his appointment.

The newly released documents have raised questions about the vetting process and the role's oversight. According to BBC, the Queen pushed for her son to inherit the role from the Duke of Kent, with David Wright noting it was her wish for Andrew to assume a 'prominent role in the promotion of national interests'. The files show that no other candidates were considered for the unpaid job.

The appointment process has been criticized as reflecting an outdated system where royal status took precedence over experience and expertise. HuffPost notes that the documents expose a British establishment dazzled by royal status, which stopped asking normal questions about power. The informal nature of the role raises concerns about oversight and scrutiny in trade diplomacy.