Prince Andrew's trade envoy expenses rise after self‑commissioned review

Prince Andrew served as the UK’s special representative for international trade and investment from 2001 to 2011, an unpaid role funded by the government for travel, staffing and related costs. In early 2008 he ordered PricewaterhouseCoopers to produce an “independent strategic review” of his performance. The report described him as “highly valued by UK businesses” and a “unique and highly valuable UK asset”, and the government responded by increasing his taxpayer‑funded budget for accommodation, travel and staff.

The boost came after years of criticism over his soaring expenses – nicknamed “Air Miles Andy” – which had reached more than £750,000 a year. The review, revealed in the Epstein files alongside a hiring pack for adviser Philip Yea, led to a further rise in funding despite later recommendations to cut travel costs. The episode highlights ongoing scrutiny of royal spending and the use of public money for diplomatic activities.