UK releases documents showing Queen backed Prince Andrew for trade envoy despite vetting lapses

The British government has published confidential papers confirming that Queen Elizabeth II was "very keen" for her son, the Duke of York, to be appointed as a UK trade envoy. Trade Minister Chris Bryant told lawmakers that no formal due‑diligence or vetting process was carried out before the appointment.

Prince Andrew, who served as a special envoy for international trade from 2001 to 2011, was stripped of his royal title last year after the fallout from his association with Jeffrey Epstein. The documents also note that his high public profile would require "careful and sometimes strict media management" and cite concerns about his past links to figures in Libya and Azerbaijan. The government is cooperating with Thames Valley Police in an investigation into possible misconduct in public office.

Lawmakers had previously moved to force publication of the files, and the release has reignited scrutiny of how the monarchy and the British establishment wield influence in diplomatic and commercial appointments.