Queen Elizabeth II was 'very keen' for her son Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to become a trade envoy 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.
Key Takeaways
Queen Elizabeth II was eager for her son Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to become a trade envoy in 2001, according to newly released government files. The documents reveal that the Queen wanted him to promote national interests and that no formal security vetting was conducted before his appointment.
- Queen Elizabeth expressed strong interest in Andrew's role as trade envoy
- Documents show preference for 'sophisticated countries' and ballet over theater
- No evidence of formal due diligence or security vetting before appointment
- Andrew served as trade envoy from 2001 to 2011, stripped of royal title later
- Arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to Jeffrey Epstein
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 the UK's special representative for international trade and investment, a role 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.
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