The government has backed the Lib Dems’ attempt to force the public release of files related to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as a trade envoy on Tuesday.
The party tabled 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 Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, who served as a trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.
During the debate, shadow minister Alex Burghart said it is “possible to identify the hand of Epstein” in the former prince’s appointment.
Meanwhile, New Zealand and Australia has said it would support the British government if it proposes to remove Mr Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession.
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.
