Newly released UK government documents say Queen Elizabeth II was “very keen” for her son, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, to become a government trade envoy. The papers include a memo dated 25 February 2000 addressed to then–foreign secretary Robin Cook. It is attributed to David Wright, the chief executive of British Trade International, and reports that the Queen’s wish was for Mountbatten-Windsor, then the Duke of York, to take on a “prominent role” in promoting Britain’s national interests. Multiple outlets report that Wright’s memo reflects the Queen’s preference for Andrew to travel as part of the envoy work, including seeking engagement with “sophisticated” countries.
Other reporting focuses on the appointment process and later controversy. The BBC and The Guardian say there is no evidence of formal security vetting or due diligence before the appointment, according to a government minister. Several outlets also note that the envoy role later became controversial due to allegations and investigations involving Mountbatten-Windsor’s links to American financier Jeffrey Epstein, including claims that he shared secrets while serving in trade-related capacity.
The documents concern Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment in 2001 and his service until 2011.
