Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles has expressed “profound concern” regarding allegations against his brother, Prince Andrew, amid ongoing scrutiny over his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The King is prepared to support Thames Valley Police if they seek assistance related to the claims.
The police are currently investigating suggestions that Andrew improperly shared confidential documents during his time as the UK’s special representative for international trade and investment. This inquiry has intensified following the recent release of thousands of files by US authorities that detail Epstein’s extensive misconduct.
A spokesperson from Buckingham Palace stated, “The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct.” The statement emphasized that while the specific claims are for Andrew to address, the Palace stands ready to assist law enforcement if approached.
Andrew’s alleged misconduct includes claims that he provided Epstein with sensitive information, potentially compromising his role as a trade envoy. One email from November 2010 was forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after it was received from his then-special adviser, Amir Patel. Notably, on December 24, 2010, Andrew included Epstein in an email discussing a confidential briefing about investment opportunities in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province.
The scandal has drawn significant public attention, especially after recent revelations regarding Andrew’s alleged involvement in sexual encounters facilitated by Epstein. Among the allegations are reports that Epstein arranged for a woman to travel to the UK for a sexual encounter with Andrew, as well as claims that both men suggested a threesome to an exotic dancer at Epstein’s residence in Florida.
In a related development, the Prince and Princess of Wales have publicly expressed their “deep concern” regarding the ongoing revelations tied to the Epstein affair. A spokesperson for Kensington Palace confirmed that their thoughts remain focused on the victims impacted by the allegations. This marks the couple’s first public statement on the issue since it resurfaced.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it has been noted that Graham Smith, chief executive of the anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, has reported these allegations to the police. A spokesperson from Thames Valley Police confirmed receipt of the report, stating, “We are assessing the information in line with our established procedures.”
The scrutiny surrounding Prince Andrew intensified significantly in 2022 when his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, stripped him of his honorary military appointments amid the civil sex case brought by Virginia Giuffre. Giuffre, who tragically passed away last year, alleged that she was forced into sexual activities with Andrew when she was 17, accusations he has consistently denied. Despite his claims of innocence, Andrew reached a financial settlement with Giuffre in 2022, reportedly amounting to millions.
As this investigation progresses, Buckingham Palace remains vigilant, balancing public concerns with the need for due process regarding the allegations against Prince Andrew. The King’s commitment to support police efforts further underscores the seriousness of the situation, as the Royal Family grapples with the implications of the renewed scandal.
