Palace says King Charles will ‘support’ police probe into ex-Prince Andrew

British police are assessing a complaint that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, sent confidential trade reports to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The inquiry by Thames Valley Police was launched after news reports revealed emails suggesting Andrew shared reports from his 2010 Southeast Asia tour as Britain’s envoy for international trade with Epstein. The emails, part of a larger release of documents by the US Justice Department, also appear to show Andrew sharing his itinerary with Epstein. Buckingham Palace stated that King Charles III will "support" the police investigation. The police confirmed they are assessing the information following a complaint from an anti-monarchy campaigner.

British police are investigating claims that former Prince Andrew sent sensitive trade records to Jeffrey Epstein. The inquiry was launched after news organizations reported on emails suggesting Andrew sent reports from a 2010 tour of Southeast Asia as Britain's envoy for international trade. Buckingham Palace confirmed King Charles is "ready to support" the police if approached over the claims. An antimonarchy campaigner reported Andrew for suspected misconduct in public office and breaches of Britain's Official Secrets Act due to the emails, which were among millions of documents released by the US Justice Department last month. The former prince has denied all wrongdoing in relation to Epstein. The investigation is ongoing as part of a broader US inquiry into Epstein's activities.

Prince William visited Saudi Arabia on Monday, February 9, 2026, on his first official diplomatic trip to the country. The visit, requested by the British government, aims to strengthen relations between Britain and Saudi Arabia, a strategically important partner. William is scheduled to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has been working to rehabilitate his image after the 2018 assassination of Jamal Khashoggi. The trip highlights William's growing diplomatic role within the royal family following Queen Elizabeth II's death and King Charles III's ascension. The visit also comes amidst renewed scrutiny of the royal family's ties to Jeffrey Epstein, prompting William and his wife to issue a statement expressing concern for the victims.

Prince William and Princess Catherine released a statement expressing deep concern for the victims of Jeffrey Epstein, following the release of documents by the U.S. Department of Justice. This statement is part of the British monarchy's effort to distance itself from Prince Andrew's past association with Epstein. The statement was released ahead of Prince William's trip to Saudi Arabia. Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was stripped of his royal titles in October and recently forced by King Charles III to leave his residence at Royal Lodge. He is currently residing at Wood Farm Cottage on the Sandringham estate while his permanent home undergoes repairs. Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing related to his relationship with Epstein.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have expressed "deep concern" regarding the ongoing revelations from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, particularly those involving Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Kensington Palace released this statement as Prince William began a three-day tour of Saudi Arabia. The statement indicates that their thoughts are with the victims of Epstein's crimes. The release of millions of documents related to Epstein by US authorities has reignited the scandal, leading to new allegations against Mountbatten-Windsor, including claims of sexual misconduct and sharing confidential information. UK police have also launched an investigation into Peter Mandelson based on these revelations. Mountbatten-Windsor, who denies any wrongdoing, has not commented on the latest allegations.

Prince William is undertaking his first official visit to Saudi Arabia, beginning with a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday. The three-day visit aims to strengthen economic cooperation between the UK and Saudi Arabia as they approach a century of diplomatic relations. Discussions are expected to focus on growing trade, energy, and investment ties. Prince William will also tour the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage site and visit AlUla to learn about conservation efforts. The visit occurs amidst ongoing scrutiny of Prince Andrew and aims to reinforce the long-standing strategic partnership between the British and Saudi royal families.