Emails released in the United States appear to indicate Andrew forwarded official reports to Epstein, including a November 2010 communication from his then Indian-origin special assistant Amit Patel connected to trade visits, as per BBC.
The anti-monarchy campaign group Republic has submitted a complaint to the police alleging “suspected misconduct in public office and breach of official secrets”.”We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures,” a Thames Valley Police spokesperson said.
Read more: British PM Starmer vows to fight for his job after furore about former ambassador’s Epstein ties
Andrew, who was stripped of his royal titles last year, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
The Royal response
In a statement, the Buckingham Palace said, “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.””While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect,” as per PTI.
“As was previously stated, Their Majesties’ [Charles and Camilla] thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse,” the statement further read.
The development followed reports of King Charles being heckled during a visit to Clitheroe in north-west England on Monday, February 9.
Kensington Palace also issued a statement on behalf of the Prince and Princess of Wales, saying: “I can confirm the Prince and Princess have been deeply concerned by the continuing revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.”
Political fallout widens
The controversy has continued to dominate headlines amid the release of documents linked to a US Congress inquiry into Epstein.
Read more: US Commerce secy Lutnick faces calls to quit over newly revealed Epstein dealings
The issue has also unsettled British politics, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer facing criticism over his appointment of a politician associated with Epstein as the UK’s ambassador to the US.
Although Starmer later dismissed Peter Mandelson from the Washington role, opposition leaders and some Labour MPs have questioned his judgement.
