UK Government to Release Prince Andrew Vetting Files Over Trade Envoy Appointment

The UK government has agreed to disclose official documents relating to the appointment of Prince Andrew as a trade envoy, following mounting political pressure and renewed scrutiny over his past associations with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Ministers confirmed that records connected to Andrew Mountbatten Windsor’s vetting and selection process for the role of Special Representative for International Trade and Investment will be made public. The move comes after lawmakers used a rare parliamentary mechanism to demand transparency surrounding his appointment and conduct during his decade long tenure.

Prince Andrew, the younger brother of King Charles III, served in the unpaid trade envoy position from 2001 to 2011. The role involved promoting British business interests abroad and engaging with senior government officials and global investors. His appointment at the time was seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen the United Kingdom’s international commercial relationships.

The current controversy intensified after the United States government released millions of pages of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. Some of the material appeared to suggest that Andrew shared official trip reports and correspondence with Epstein while holding his envoy role. Trade envoys are typically subject to confidentiality obligations, and questions have been raised about whether sensitive information was handled appropriately.

Andrew was arrested last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office, becoming the first senior royal figure in centuries to face such action. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein and has previously expressed regret over their association. Police investigations remain ongoing, and authorities have indicated that further updates will depend on the outcome of inquiries.

During a debate in the House of Commons, several lawmakers criticized the former royal’s conduct and questioned whether long standing parliamentary conventions that restrict criticism of the royal family should continue to apply. The Speaker permitted discussion of Andrew on the basis that he no longer carries official royal duties, having stepped back from public life in 2019.

Junior trade minister Chris Bryant told Parliament that the government would support the release of documents, although officials must first ensure that disclosure does not interfere with active police investigations. The motion was passed without opposition, though attendance from senior figures across major parties was limited.

Political analysts suggest that publication of the vetting files could raise uncomfortable questions for former ministers involved in the original decision to appoint Andrew, as well as for members of the royal household. The appointment occurred during the administration of former Prime Minister Tony Blair, and any internal assessments or warnings contained in the documents may draw renewed scrutiny.

The development adds to one of the most serious reputational challenges facing the monarchy in decades. Public interest remains high as lawmakers, legal experts, and governance advocates continue to call for greater accountability and transparency in matters involving public office and national representation.