Police have issued a major update over their searches of Royal Lodge following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
In a statement on Tuesday evening, Thames Valley Police confirmed searches had concluded at the ex-prince’s former residence of Royal Lodge in Berkshire.
They added their investigation is “ongoing” but said any updates are “unlikely to be for some time”.
It comes after the government backed the Lib Dems’ attempt to force the public release of files related to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as a trade envoy.
During the debate, trade minister Sir Chris Bryant slammed the ex-prince as “arrogant and entitled”.
The former prince was arrested last Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office after being accused of sharing sensitive information with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein while serving as the UK's trade envoy. He was later released under investigation.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has vehemently denied any wrongdoing in his links with Epstein, and has rejected allegations that he made any personal gain from his trade envoy role.
On Monday, Lord Peter Mandelson was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in a public office. On Tuesday, his lawyers released a statement saying the arrest followed “baseless” claims he was planning to flee the country.
Australia backs growing calls to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from line of succession
New Zealand would support removal of Andrew from line of succession
Why can’t MPs debate the future of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor?
Hang it in the Louvre: Why ex-Prince Andrew’s taxi photo is so dangerous for the royal family
Key Points
- Searches at Royal Lodge conclude after ex-prince's arrest
- Lib Dems motion passed without a vote
- 'Hand of Epstein' present in Mountbatten-Windsor's appointment as trade envoy, shadow minister says
- Mountbatten-Windsor a 'man on a constant self-aggrandising and self-enriching hustle', minister says
- Lord Mandelson arrest followed 'baseless' flee claims, lawyers say
Recap: Ex-prince's arrest picture hung in the Louvre
01:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneCampaign group Everyone Hates Elon say they hung a photograph of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor taken after his arrest in the Louvre.
An individual was filmed hanging a picture of the former prince, taken by Reuters photographer Phil Noble after Mr Mountbatten-Windsor was released under investigation, in the Paris museum.
How the former Prince Andrew could be removed from Britain's line of succession
00:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneIt's been 90 years since a British royal was removed from the line of succession. That might happen again now that Britain's government says it will consider introducing legal changes to formally remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the list of royals in line to the throne.
Despite being stripped of his status as prince in October over his close links with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the former Prince Andrew, King Charles III's younger brother, remains eighth in line to become monarch.
Experts say the process of removing him from the line of succession could be lengthy because it requires the involvement of about a dozen countries that also call the British monarch their head of state.
Nonetheless, momentum for change appears to be building after police last week arrested Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
But how would removing him from the line of succession work? You can read more below:
How the former Prince Andrew could be removed from Britain's line of succession
Watch: BBC Olympics report interrupted by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest
23:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneRecap: Australia and New Zealand back calls to remove Mountbatten-Windsor from line of succession
22:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe prime ministers of Australia and New Zealand have joined growing calls to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession.
Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese wrote in a letter to UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer that Australia took the “grave allegations” against the former Duke of York seriously.
A spokesperson for Christopher Luxon, the country’s prime minister, said: “If the UK government proposes to remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the order of succession, New Zealand would support it.”
Editorial: MPs must move quickly to make the Andrew files public
21:39 , Nicole Wootton-Cane
Updates in investigation 'unlikely to be for some time', police say
21:20 , Nicole Wootton-CanePolice have said any updates in their investigation into alleged misconduct by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor are “unlikely to be for some time”.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, Thames Valley Police said officers had finished searches at Royal Lodge and would continue to probe the allegations.
“It is important that our investigators are given the time and space to progress their work,” assistant chief constable Oliver Wright said.
“We will provide updates when it is appropriate to do so, but this is unlikely to be for some time.”
Searches at Royal Lodge conclude after ex-prince's arrest
21:15 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSearches at Royal Lodge have now finished following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, police have confirmed.
In a statement, officers said: “Thames Valley Police can confirm the searches in Berkshire in connection to its investigation into the offence of misconduct in public office have now ended.”
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Officers have now left the location we have been searching in Berkshire. This concludes the search activity that commenced following our arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk on Thursday.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case and our investigation remains ongoing.
“It is important that our investigators are given the time and space to progress their work. We will provide updates when it is appropriate to do so, but this is unlikely to be for some time.”
It’s up to William and Kate to rebuild royals’ integrity after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor scandal, PR expert says
21:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe Prince and Princess of Wales face taking on the of rebuilding the “integrity of the royal family” damaged by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s relationship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, a PR expert has said.
Future monarchs William and Kate will need to make their vision for the institution, now in what some have suggested is its worst crisis for 90 years, clear in order to rebuild public trust.
It comes after Andrew’s arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office on Thursday following the Epstein scandal that simmered for years.
You can read more below:
William and Kate have task of rebuilding royal family’s integrity, says PR guru
Mandelson's lawyers ask Metropolitan Police to for 'evidence relied upon to justify the arrest'
20:42 , Nicole Wootton-CaneLawyers acting on behalf of Lord Peter Mandelson have asked the Metropolitan Police to provide the evidence they relied upon to arrest the ex-Labour peer.
In a statement, Mishcon de Reya said the arrest had followed “baseless” claims he was about to leave the country.
“We have asked the MPS for the evidence relied upon to justify the arrest,” the statement continued.
“Peter Mandelson's overriding priority is to cooperate with the police investigation, as he has done throughout this process, and to clear his name.”
Ex-prince 'left early' and 'showed no interest' when meeting young Sea Cadets, MP recalls
20:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneAt the despatch box on Tuesday, trade minister Sir Chris Bryant described Andrew as “a man on a constant self-aggrandising and self-enriching hustle”, and “a rude, arrogant and entitled man who could not distinguish between the public interest, which he said he served, and his own private interest”.
He recalled Mr Mountbatten-Windsor visiting the Sea Cadets in Tonypandy, in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
“They were absolutely delighted and excited to meet a member of the royal family,” Sir Chris said.
“But he insisted on coming by helicopter, unlike his mother, who came twice to the Rhondda and always came by car. He left early and he showed next to no interest in the young people.”
Recap: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s taxpayer funded Met bodyguards told to provide security for Epstein party, emails reveal
20:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneTaxpayer-funded Metropolitan Police bodyguards assigned to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor were instructed to provide door security for a lavish celebrity dinner party at Jeffrey Epstein’s New York home, emails suggest.
Two royal protection officers appear to have been told to act as doormen at the paedophile financier’s seven-floor Manhattan mansion in 2010, after he had been convicted of a child sex offence.
The officers, given the job of protecting the prince, were staying at the multimillion-pound townhouse on 71st Street during the royal’s trip to visit his friend, according to emails unearthed in the latest tranche of the Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice.
The Independent’s crime correspondent Amy-Clare Martin has this report:
Andrew’s taxpayer funded Met officers told to guard Epstein party, emails reveal
Almost 60 UK royals have been arrested – and Charles I was not the last since Andrew
19:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, brother to King Charles III, on suspicion of misconduct in office has come as a shock to many. Numerous articles in diverse media have described the arrest of a member of the royal family as “unprecedented”.
It has been argued that the last royal arrest was that of King Charles I (reigned from 1625 to 1649) by parliamentary forces in 1646. This episode famously ended with Charles’s execution in 1649. But although royal arrests had dwindled by the 17th century, Charles I’s was not the last.
You can read more below:
Almost 60 UK royals have been arrested – and Charles I was not the last since Andrew
Mandelson asks journalist 'who is behind this?' following arrest, reports say
19:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneLord Peter Mandelson reportedly texted a journalist and asked “who or what is behind this?” following his arrest on Monday.
Speaking on The News Agents podcast, Emily Maitlis said a journalist told her they had received a text from Lord Mandelson reading: "Despite previous agreement between police and legal team over voluntary interview in early March, police arrested me because they claimed... that I was about to flee to the British Virgin Islands and take up permanent residence abroad, leaving Reinaldo, my family, home and Jock behind me.
“I need hardly say complete fiction. The police were told only today that they had to improvise an arrest.
“The question is, who or what is behind this?"
Watch: Virginia Giuffre's family 'celebrated' after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest
18:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneLord Mandelson arrest followed 'baseless' flee claims, lawyers say
18:26 , Nicole Wootton-CaneLord Peter Mandelson’s lawyers Mishcon de Reya have released a statement on the ex-Labour peer’s arrest on Monday, saying it followed “baseless” claims he was about to flee the country.
“Peter Mandelson was arrested yesterday despite an agreement with the police that he would attend an interview next month on a voluntary basis,” it said.
“The arrest was prompted by a baseless suggestion that he was planning to leave the country and take up permanent residence abroad. There is absolutely no truth whatsoever in any such suggestion.
“We have asked the MPS for the evidence relied upon to justify the arrest. Peter Mandelson's overriding priority is to cooperate with the police investigation, as he has done throughout this process, and to clear his name.”
You can read the full report from Whitehall editor Kate Devlin below:
Mandelson’s lawyers claim arrest was over ‘baseless’ claim he planned to leave UK
Officials feared Andrew would ‘damage’ Britain’s reputation as trade envoy, MP says
18:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneOfficials worried “arrogant” Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor “would do damage” to Britain’s reputation while working as a trade envoy, a Liberal Democrat MP has claimed.
Monica Harding, told the Commons the former prince stayed in his post for 10 years despite having a “reputation that preceded him” while concerns were “met with a shrug”.
Her comments came as ministers agreed to release files related to the appointment of the royal to the envoy role after he was released under investigation on suspicion of misconduct in public office last week.
Prior to entering politics, Ms Harding worked as the director of communications at the British Council, with Andrew having visited as a trade envoy.
“Before his arrival, senior staff in both the embassy and the British Council were rolling their eyes – his reputation preceded him,” the MP for Esher and Walton said.
“I was told it was a containment exercise, that overseas missions feared putting him out there in case he said something inappropriate, that he was arrogant and that he wasn’t on top of the detail of his brief.
“Rather than looking forward to his visit as an opportunity to play up Britain, instead, it was thought that he would do damage.”
She also said the former prince “smeared” the work of British scientists on Dolly the sheep, the first cloned mammal, as being “rubbish”, at an exhibition she had organised.
One member of staff was left “deflated and didn’t understand why this representative of the British state diminished what she was rightly proud of”, Ms Harding said.
Questions about Andrew’s trade envoy role spark calls to widen FOI laws
17:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneQuestions about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as a special envoy have sparked calls to apply freedom of information laws to the royal family.
Members of the public have a general right to access information which public authorities hold, but communications related to the royal family or royal household are exempt.
Speaking in the Commons, Green Party MP Sian Berry suggested the carve-out could be abused to evade legitimate scrutiny, if ministers were to appoint members of the royal family to government-linked roles.
“Transparency about workings of an organisation is a key way to prevent corruption,” Ms Berry said.
“Sunlight really is the best disinfectant.”
Turning to the exemption, the MP for Brighton Pavilion said: “Now, that really is one rule for the rich and powerful and one rule for the rest of us.”
She later told MPs: “I believe this is a serious transparency loophole for royals that must be closed.
“For example, it could mean that if positions such as trade envoy are filled by members of the royal family, it would be predictably significantly harder for the press, public and MPs to make sure things are above board, and much harder to get details when things go very, very badly wrong.”
Ms Berry said the exemption had allowed the royals’ “power to act in the shadows, concealing important truths from MPs and the public”.
The MP later told the Press Association she is considering a bid to remove the exemption, either by tabling her own Bill or trying to amend a future piece of legislation.
Kemi Badenoch says she’s still a monarchist despite Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor scandal
17:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneKemi Badenoch has praised the royal family for its response to the scandal engulfing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as she said they were in a “very difficult” position.
In an interview with The Independent, the Tory leader, who described herself as a monarchist, also said the King had led on the issue “in an exemplary fashion”.
You can read The Independent’s Whitehall editor Kate Devlin’s exclusive interview below:
I’m still a monarchist despite Andrew scandal, Badenoch says
Comment: It’s time parliament put away the humble address for another 151 years
17:00 , Nicole Wootton-Cane
It’s time parliament put away the humble address for another 151 years
Minister warns Commons to expect '25-year-old' documents in hard copy
16:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSpeaking in the Commons on Tuesday afternoon, Sir Chris Bryant said he wants to “manage people’s expectations” about how quickly the papers on Andrew can be released, due to the age and quantity of the material, and the live police investigation.
He said: “It’s worth bearing in mind that the documents that might be envisaged in this are mostly 25-years-old. Some of them are a bit earlier. They may be substantial in number and many of them will be in hard copy.”
The minister later added: “I am slightly trying to manage people’s expectations about timeliness, partly because of the quantity of material, and because there is a live police investigation, and I just don’t want to jeopardise that.”
Inside Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's role as trade envoy
16:27 , Harriette BoucherAndrew Mountbatten-Windsor was appointed as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment in 2001 after retiring from the Royal Navy.
He was handed the role by Sir Tony Blair’s New Labour government and received the backing of Conservatives and Labour figures, despite controversy around the appointment and his suitability for the job.
The then-prince stepped down from the role in 2011.
Reports from the time said that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s time as trade envoy was plagued with controversy, with calls for his resignations in March 2011 over his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, who had been jailed for sex offences.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor did not receive a salary, but did have expenses paid for.
It was alleged this week that he used taxpayers’ money for massages and excessive travel costs during his time as the UK’s trade envoy, according to claims made by retired civil servants.
His expenses-paid delegations also earned him the nickname ‘Air miles Andy’.
When asked in 2011 what Mr Mountbatten-Windsor contributed to the role, former prime minister David Cameron’s spokesman said that many UK businesses supported the work he had done over recent years.
“We saw trade as an important part of our Growth Strategy and the Prime Minister had been clear that the whole of Government needed to support British business in promoting exports to other countries. We thought that Prince Andrew had made a valuable contribution in this area.”
Government 'working at pace' to bring forward legislation on succession
15:59 , Harriette BoucherTrade minister Sir Chris Bryant said the Government is "working at pace" to bring forward legislation on succession, amid calls for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to lose his right to the throne.
Despite being stripped of his title last year, the former duke of York is still eighth in line to the throne, and an Act of Parliament would be required to prevent him from ever becoming king.
Sir Chris told the Commons: “We are working at pace on this, and we intend to be able to bring forward legislation where we can."I can't commit to a particular date on that.
“But I note that Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music sang 'I have confidence that spring will come again', and so I have confidence that the act of succession will come round at pace.”
At the conclusion of the debate, MPs approved a Liberal Democrat motion which called for the release of documents relating to the former prince's appointment as a trade envoy.
Papers on ex-prince to be released 'as soon as possible within the law'
15:54 , Harriette BoucherAll papers relating to Andrew’s appointment as the UK’s trade envoy in 2001 will be released "as soon as is practicable and possible within the law", Sir Chris Bryant has said.
Earlier the trade minister said he wants to “manage people’s expectations” about how quickly material about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor can be released.
“I want to make sure that we move as fast as we possibly can, but I also want to make sure that justice does happen, and I don’t want to do anything that would undermine the police investigations. I hope that they will be able to move as swiftly as possible and we will certainly co-operate with them as swiftly as possible.
“It’s worth bearing in mind that the documents that might be envisaged in this are mostly 25-years-old. Some of them are a bit earlier. They may be substantial in number and many of them will be in hard copy.”
Lib Dems motion passed without vote
15:50 , Harriette BoucherThe Lib Dems motion calling for all papers relating to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as UK trade envoy has passed without a vote.
MPs unanimously backed the move tabled in the Commons on Tuesday, which means the government is obliged to comply with it.
Sir Chris Bryant said the government would release the files "as soon as is practicable and possible within the law".
MPs to begin gathering information on trade envoy role 'immediately'
14:53 , Harriette BoucherA potential parliamentary inquiry into the trade envoy system cannot begin until legal proceedings against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor have concluded, according to the business and trade committee chairman.
Liam Byrne said the committee would "begin gathering information immediately so that we might stand ready to launch an inquiry into the governance regime for trade envoys at the moment the police and criminal justice system action has concluded".
The committee will write to ministers on the issue "and we will come back to the House with our opinion about whether an inquiry should be launched, depending on the information we receive,” he said.
'The web of abuse surrounding Epstein and his associates must be brought to book', says Maskell
14:49 , Harriette BoucherRachael Maskell has called for a judge-led enquiry to “ensure that the multiple strands of this global network of power are brought into account”.
Speaking in the Commons on Tuesday, she said: “The web of abuse surround Epstein and his associates must be brought to book.
“And Mr Mountbatten-Windsor as a known associate, must be also held to account in his role as a special trade envoy and for his associations too.”
The MP for York Central said it was not just Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as trade envoy that needed to be looked at, but also his ten years in the role.
King’s dignity will shine on US tour after Andrew arrest, says Geordie Greig
14:30 , Harriette Boucher
King’s dignity will shine on US tour after Andrew arrest, says Geordie Greig
In pictures: New fencing erected at Marsh Farm on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, where Andrew has relocated
14:15 , Harriette Boucher
Government must 'manage expectations' on how quickly material on ex-prince can be released, Bryant says
14:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneTrade minister Sir Chris Bryant said he wants to “manage people’s expectations” about how quickly material about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor can be released.
Responding to concerns from Father of the House Sir Edward Leigh, Sir Chris said: “I want to make sure that we move as fast as we possibly can, but I also want to make sure that justice does happen, and I don’t want to do anything that would undermine the police investigations. I hope that they will be able to move as swiftly as possible and we will certainly co-operate with them as swiftly as possible.
“It’s worth bearing in mind that the documents that might be envisaged in this are mostly 25-years-old. Some of them are a bit earlier. They may be substantial in number and many of them will be in hard copy.
“So, I hate to add to (Sir Edward’s) fears about the speed with which things may be able to happen, but we would all want to make sure that we do do all of this in a proper fashion.”
Later, he told Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper: “I am slightly trying to manage people’s expectations about timeliness, partly because of the quantity of material, and because there is a live police investigation, and I just don’t want to jeopardise that.
“If there are things that are embarrassing to the government, who cares? I want to make sure that we end up getting the proper justice that is necessary for the victims, and that means that we have to have a proper police procedure.”
'Hand of Epstein' present in Mountbatten-Windsor's appointment as trade envoy, shadow minister says
13:51 , Nicole Wootton-CaneShadow secretary of state Alex Burghart has said it is “possible to identify the hand of Epstein” in Peter Mandelson’s appointent
“The truth is that the people who helped Jeffrey Epstein - who helped him by supplying him with contacts and information were the people who enabled him to become powerful,” he told the Commons.
“Those people effectively enabled him to build his net of influence, his net of abuse, and that network of power in turn enabled him to abuse more and more people.”
He added that this debate is the second within weeks to force the government to release information under a humble address.
“It is a global political scandal, a political scandal that has reached its tendrils into the operation of many governments across the west and indeed the east,” he continued.
“These revelations surrounding the relationship between Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Jeffrey Epstein, just as the relationship between Peter Mandelson and Jeffrey Epstein, and the arrest of both men on suspicion of misconduct in public office, make it right that questions are asked and that information is brought before this house.
“If one looks back to 2001 it is possible to identify the hand of Epstein in Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment. It has been reported that Peter Mandelson first met Epstein in the summer of 2001, Mountbatten-Windsor first met Epstein in 1999.
“Shortly after Mandelson’s first meeting in October 2001, Mountbatten-Windsor is appointed as trade envoy.”
'There is only one rule: the rule of law,' Bryant says
13:37 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSir Chris Bryant has said the police will have the government’s “unwavering support” as their investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor continues.
“There is unanimous agreement across this house that those who may be guilty of mosconduct in public office should face the full force of the law,” he said. “That applies to everyone, regardless of who they are, or how they were appointed.”
He added one of the core principles of our constitutional system is the rule of law that means “everyone is equal” and “nobody is above the law”.
“I share the anger and the disgust expressed by many at the alleged behaviour of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor,” he continued. “What we are seeing now is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated by the police.”
He said the investigation will have the government’s “unwavering” support.
"Sometimes it feels to many members of the public that there is one rule for the rich and famous and one rule for the rest of us, but actually, there is only one rule: the rule of law.”
Epstein scandal 'first truly global scandal', Davey says
13:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe Jeffrey Epstein scandal is “the first truly global scandal,” reaching from Britain to the White House, the leader of the Liberal Democrats has said.
Speaking as he opened a parliamentary debate intended to compel ministers to similarly release documents about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as trade envoy on Tuesday, Sir Ed Davey said: “In many ways, this is the first truly global scandal from the White House and Silicon Valley to Oslo and Paris, but it’s also a deeply British scandal reaching right to the top of the British establishment.
“Because, can there be many people more symbolic of the rot that eats away at the British establishment than the former duke of York and special trade envoy, and (Peter Mandelson) the former business secretary, first secretary of state and ambassador to the United States.
“Their association with Epstein and their actions on his behalf, while trusted with the privilege of public office, are a stain on our country.
“We must begin to clean away that stain with the disinfectant of transparency.”
He also criticised parliamentary procedure which “barred” MPs from raising criticisms of the now former prince.
Andrew ridiculed Dolly the sheep exhibition in front of Japanese dignitaries, MP recalls
13:25 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe Independent’s political reporter Athena Stavrou reports:
An MP has recalled a memory in which Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor criticised a Dolly the Sheep exhibition in front of Japanese representatives.
Liberal Democrat Monica Harding said the former prince had visited the exhibition while working as trade envoy.
“When I was working overseas for the British Council, Mountbatten-Windsor came to an exhibition that I was putting on about Dolly the Sheep which was a fine example of British scientific innovation,” she said in a debate in the Commons.
“Mountbatten stood up in front of Japanese dignitaries and business people and said this is rubbish, this is Frankenstein's sheep.”
Mountbatten-Windsor a 'man on a constant self-aggrandising and self-enriching hustle', minister says
13:15 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSpeaking in the Commons, trade minister Sir Chris Bryant said Epstein’s abuse had been aided by many who “turned a blind eye” out of “greed, familiarity, or deference”.
“To my mind they too were just as complicit, and I welcome the reckoning that is coming to them now,” he said.
He added colleagues in parliament had told him their own stories of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, which he said all displayed the same pattern of “a man on a constant self-aggrandising and self-enriching hustle.
“A rude, arrogant and entitled man who could not distinguish between the public interest that he said he served and his own private interest,” he continued.
Ed Davey: 'Andrew shamed our country and the royal family'
13:04 , Harriette BoucheEd Davey said outdated traditions meant MPs could not criticise Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, and said the former prince “shamed our country and the royal family.”
He added: “For too long members of parliament were barred from even raising criticisms of him, let alone properly scrutinising his role as envoy.
“Because of the outdated tradition, the mention of any member of the royal family in this house must, in the words of the previous speaker, be ‘very rare, very sparing, and very respectful’.”
Davey criticises parliamentary rules preventing criticism of Andrew
12:57 , Harriette BoucherThe Independent’s Political Reporter Athena Stavrou reports:
Ed Davey has stood in the Commons to begin the debate on the Liberal Democrat’s humble address motion.
Davey is seeking to use a parliamentary debate on Tuesday to compel ministers to release documents about Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as trade envoy.
The Lib Dem leader said Andrew Mountbatten Windsor had “shamed our country and the royal family”, but added “for too long members of parliament were barred from criticising him".
Government 'in favour of transparency' and confirm support of Lib Dems motion
12:34 , Harriette BoucherKeir Starmer’s spokesman confirmed he would not oppose a move in Parliament to compel ministers to release documents about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's appointment as trade envoy
The official told reporters: “We are in favour of the principle of transparency.
“We can't publish material that would jeopardise a police investigation, as you know, so that is the balancing exercise.”
Inside the police operation to arrest Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
12:22 , Harriette BoucherThe arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has shocked many, described by one royal expert as “the most spectacular fall from grace for a member of the royal family in modern times.”
Craig Prescott, a royal expert at Royal Holloway, University of London, compared it in severity to the crisis sparked by Edward VIII’s abdication to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson, warning “it may not be over yet”.
The former prince faces an investigation into the offence of misconduct in public office, over his ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. The former prince, who became the first senior royal in modern history to be arrested, is accused of sharing sensitive information with Epstein while serving as the UK’s trade envoy.
Thames Valley Police arrested him at Sandringham Estate on his 66th birthday on Thursday.
The Independent’s Bryony Gooch reports:
Inside the police’s secret operation to arrest Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
Almost 60 UK royals have been arrested – and Charles I was not the last since Andrew
12:12 , Harriette BoucherAlmost 60 UK royals have been arrested – and Charles I was not the last since Andrew
Badenoch indicates support for Liberal Democrat motion to released Andrew files
12:05 , Harriette BoucherThe Independent’s Political Correspondent Athena Stavrou reports:
Kemi Badenoch has indicated her support for the upcoming Liberal Democrat motion to force the government to release information around Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s role as trade envoy.
The Lib Dems will table a humble address in the Commons – the same arcane mechanism the Tories used to press for the release of files on Lord Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador – in a bid to compel the government to disclose information about Andrew, who served as a trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.
Asked if she would support the motion, the Conservative Party leader said: “About supporting the Liberal Democrats request for documents to be released, I don't think there's actually going to be a vote. I don't think anyone disagrees with them.”
How the former Prince Andrew could be removed from Britain's line of succession
12:00 , Shaheena UddinIt's been 90 years since a British royal was removed from the line of succession. That might happen again now that Britain's government says it will consider introducing legal changes to formally remove Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the list of royals in line to the throne.
Despite being stripped of his status as prince in October over his close links with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the former Prince Andrew, King Charles III's younger brother, remains eighth in line to become monarch.
Read more:
How the former Prince Andrew could be removed from Britain's line of succession
Kemi Badenoch expects Lib Dems motion to pass without need for vote
11:44 , Harriette BoucherKemi Badenoch has said she expects the Lib Dems motion in the Commons today to pass without the need for a vote.
The party is using a parliamentary debate on Tuesday to try and force the release of papers relating to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as trade envoy.
The government is not expected to oppose the calls.
The Tory leader said she expects all MPs to agree on this, the Guardian reported.
Inside Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's role as trade envoy
11:34 , Harriette BoucherAndrew Mountbatten-Windsor was appointed as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment in 2001 after retiring from the Royal Navy.
He was handed the role by Sir Tony Blair’s New Labour government and received the backing of Conservatives and Labour figures, despite controversy around the appointment and his suitability for the job.
The then-prince stepped down from the role in 2011.
Reports from the time said that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s time as trade envoy was plagued with controversy, with calls for his resignations in March 2011 over his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, who had been jailed for sex offences.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor did not receive a salary, but did have expenses paid for.
It was alleged this week that he used taxpayers’ money for massages and excessive travel costs during his time as the UK’s trade envoy, according to claims made by retired civil servants.
His expenses-paid delegations also earned him the nickname ‘Air miles Andy’.
When asked in 2011 what Mr Mountbatten-Windsor contributed to the role, former prime minister David Cameron’s spokesman said that many UK businesses supported the work he had done over recent years.
“We saw trade as an important part of our Growth Strategy and the Prime Minister had been clear that the whole of Government needed to support British business in promoting exports to other countries. We thought that Prince Andrew had made a valuable contribution in this area.”
Government will not oppose Lib Dems call for release of papers related to Andrew's trade envoy appointment
11:16 , Harriette BoucherThe government is not expected to oppose the Lib Dems calls for the publication of documents about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's appointment as trade envoy.
The party will use a parliamentary debate on Tuesday to try and force the release of the papers.
Queen Camilla meets with Gisele Pelicot
11:01 , Shaheena UddinIn other news, Britain's Queen Camilla met with with French rape survivor Gisele Pelicot, as part of her visit in the UK to promote her book entitled "A Hymn to Life". The autobiography covers the full arc of her 50-year marriage, during an audience at Clarence House in London on February 23, 2026.
Camilla has long been a campaigner against sexual and domestic violence, speaking out about the issue on many occasions.
Last year, she wrote a private letter to Pelicot, 73, who was drugged and raped for a decade by her now ex-husband and strangers he enlisted online.
Listed: The line of succession to the British throne
10:40 , Harriette BoucherWatch: Kemi Badenoch says she's still a monarchist after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrest
10:23 , Harriette BoucherInside Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's role as trade envoy
10:09 , Harriette BoucherAndrew Mountbatten-Windsor was appointed as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment in 2001 after retiring from the Royal Navy.
He was handed the role by Sir Tony Blair’s New Labour government and received the backing of Conservatives and Labour figures, despite controversy around the appointment and his suitability for the job.
The then-prince stepped down from the role in 2011.
Reports from the time said that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s time as trade envoy was plagued with controversy, with calls for his resignations in March 2011 over his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, who had been jailed for sex offences.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor did not receive a salary, but did have expenses paid for.
It was alleged this week that he used taxpayers’ money for massages and excessive travel costs during his time as the UK’s trade envoy, according to claims made by retired civil servants.
His expenses-paid delegations also earned him the nickname ‘Air miles Andy’.
When asked in 2011 what Mr Mountbatten-Windsor contributed to the role, former prime minister David Cameron’s spokesman said that many UK businesses supported the work he had done over recent years.
“We saw trade as an important part of our Growth Strategy and the Prime Minister had been clear that the whole of Government needed to support British business in promoting exports to other countries. We thought that Prince Andrew had made a valuable contribution in this area.”
Andrew achieved nothing positive of note for UK as trade envoy, says former trade secretary
09:45 , Harriette BoucherSir Vince Cable has said he had not heard positive things about Andrew-Mountbatten-Windsor in his role as trade envoy.
When asked if he had achieved anything for the interests of the UK while in his role, the former trade secretary told LBC: “It was never reported to me that he had and it subsequently emerged that some of his important visits seem to be entirely independent of government.”
He added: “There were things happening that were probably very negative, I didn’t hear positive things.
“The one thing I actually asked him to do was to host a dinner at Lancaster House for a visiting Indian trade delegation, I got negative feedback about rudeness, I mean it may or may not have been significant, maybe just jokes that didn’t go down well.”
Ed Davey caught by his own support for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
09:21 , Harriette BoucherThe Independent’s Political Editor David Maddox reports:
The leader of the Lib Dems Sir Davey had a series of awkward exchanges with Nick Robinson on the Today Programme over the way he personally supported Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as a trade envoy as a business minister during the coalition government.
The Lib Dems today will be trying to take the high moral ground with their humble address trying force the publication of papers relating to the former prince’s appointment and work as a trade envoy.
But Sir Ed found himself having to apologise during the interview on the Radio 4 flagship programme for his words in a 2012 debate called by the late Labour MP Paul Flynn raising concerns about the Royal family member.
In the debate Sir Ed said: "I for one believe that the Duke of York does an excellent job as the UK's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment
“He's had long-standing success in the role, representing the continued interest by the Royal Family in supporting British business and international trade and investment.”
He chided Mr Flynn for bringing the debate just a few days after the Royal wedding of Prince William and Princess Katherine.
He said: “I think his timing is particularly inappropriate, four days after the royal wedding when I believe the whole country showed the support they give to the Royal Family and all its members.
“I'm proud to be here supporting the role of His Royal Highness tonight.”
Kemi Badenoch says she’s still a monarchist despite Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor scandal
09:17 , Harriette BoucherKemi Badenoch has praised the royal family for its response to the scandal engulfing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as she said they were in a “very difficult” position.
In an interview with The Independent, the Tory leader, who described herself as a monarchist, also said the King had led on the issue “in an exemplary fashion”.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested last week and later released under investigation on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The royal has consistently denied any wrongdoing. It followed allegations uncovered in the so-called Epstein files that Mr Mountbatten Windsor had shared sensitive information with the disgraced paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein while serving as the UK’s trade envoy.
As she praised the King, she criticised Sir Keir Starmer’s response to the allegations that emerged about Labour grandee Peter Mandelson and his connections to Epstein.
“If you can compare the King's behaviour with something affecting his family, his own brother - complete transparency,” she said.
“On the government side, it's been hiding papers (and) saying what a great guy Peter Mandelson was, as the prime minister did six months ago when I first confronted him with these allegations.”
The Independent’s Whitehall Editor Kate Devlin has the story:
I’m still a monarchist despite Andrew scandal, Badenoch says
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s taxpayer funded Met bodyguards told to provide security for Epstein party, emails reveal
09:06 , Shaheena UddinAmy-Clare Martin, The Independent’s crime correspondent, reports:
Taxpayer-funded Metropolitan Police bodyguards assigned to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor were instructed to provide door security for a lavish celebrity dinner party at Jeffrey Epstein’s New York home, emails suggest.
Two royal protection officers appear to have been told to act as doormen at the paedophile financier’s seven-floor Manhattan mansion in 2010, after he had been convicted of a child sex offence.
Andrew’s taxpayer funded Met officers told to guard Epstein party, emails reveal
Analysis: A humble address in Parliament on Andrew Mountbatten Windsor makes life awkward for Labour
08:58 , Harriette BoucherAnalysis by The Independent’s Political Editor David Maddox:
The decision by the Lib Dems to turn their opposition day motion on to publishing papers on the appointment and work of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor as a UK trade envoy makes life complicated for the Labour government.
Essentially it means that if it is passed the vote is binding on the government and they will have to produce the papers which go back years and cover a significant period.
We saw the same tactic used by the Tories in forcing the government to publish the papers on Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the US last year.
This parliamentary mechanism was rediscovered during the Brexit negotiation years following the referendum to force the hand of Theresa May’s government and then of the one led by Boris Johnson.
No wonder education secretary Bridget Phillipson’s response was nervous over whether the government will accept the Lib Dem motion on Mr Mountbatten Windsor and his previous role.
While she refers to not wanting to prejudice criminal investigations there will also be further details about what minister knew of the Jeffrey Epstein affair.
The appointment was also made and encouraged by a previous Labour government led by Tony Blair.
Watch: Infamous photo of Andrew’s arrest hung in Louvre by protesters
08:48 , Shaheena UddinCommittee of MPs considers launching probs into role of trade envoys after Andrew arrest
08:36 , Shaheena UddinAn influential group of MPs is considering launching a parliamentary probe into the role of UK trade envoys after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The business and trade committee will discuss its options today amid the police investigation after allegations were made against the former prince following the release of files related to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.
It is understood that any inquiry would look at potential governance issues within the wider system and lessons to be learned, avoiding specific commentary on Mr Mountbatten-Windsor until there is no risk of prejudicing criminal proceedings.
MPs could also consider looking more broadly at the appointment and accountability of UK trade envoys at the meeting.
The Committee will have a private discussion before its chair, Liam Byrne, gives a public statement on its decision at around 2.30pm.
The Independent’s political correspondent Millie Cooke reports:
MPs to consider inquiry into trade envoy role after Andrew’s arrest
Ed Davey regrets praising Andrew for his trade envoy role
08:27 , Shaheena UddinSir Ed Davey has said he regretted praising Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in his role as trade envoy when the Liberal Democrat leader was a minister in the coalition government.
Sir Ed was asked by BBC Radio 4’s Today programme about praise he gave to the then-prince in a parliamentary debate in 2011 while he was a trade minister, and replied: “First of all, can I apologise to all those victims of Epstein who may have read those words and been upset by them. I really regret them.”
He later added: “We do need to make sure that whatever someone’s title and their friends, they can be held to account.
“So, I’ve learned from that, I’m pretty angry to be honest that I was put in that position, and I think anyone who has had any comment to make on Prince Andrew as trade envoy over the years will be pretty angry that the trust that was put in him, the privileged position he had, he absolutely betrayed.”
Sir Ed also told the BBC his party was calling for the release of documents relating to Andrew’s appointment as trade envoy because “we need to go right to the moment when he was appointed, and then we can answer the questions about how he conducted that role”.
He added: “What we’re asking today is to make sure all the documents about the vetting, the due diligence, ministerial correspondence, is in the public domain, and I think that’s the right thing to do.”
Lib Dems to try and force release of papers relating to Andrew's trade envoy appointment
08:00 , Shaheena UddinThe Independent’s political correspondent Millie Cooke reports:
The Lib Dems will table a humble address in the Commons today – the same arcane mechanism the Tories used to press for the release of files on Lord Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador – in a bid to compel the government to disclose information about Andrew, who served as a trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.
If the motion succeeds, the government will be forced to release papers relating to Andrew’s appointment to the post, including any vetting and any correspondence from Lord Mandelson.
Minister won't say if government will back Lib Dem attempt to release Andrew's files
07:45 , Shaheena UddinEducation secretary, Bridget Phillipson would not reveal whether the Government will support a forthcoming Lib Dem attempt in Parliament to compel ministers to disclose information about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s role as a trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.
“We’ll review what they are asking for and will set our approach later on in Parliament,” she said.
Ms Phillipson was questioned on whether the government would support removing Andrew from the royal line of succession.
“We’re ruling nothing out and that is definitely an option that we would want to keep under consideration”, she said.
