Former Royal Secretary to Assist Police in Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Investigation
Charlotte Manley, the former private secretary to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has confirmed she will speak with Thames Valley Police as their investigation into the disgraced royal continues. This development follows Andrew's arrest last month on suspicion of misconduct in public office, with the probe intensifying as more documents from the Epstein files are released.
Key Witness in Royal Payment Scandal
Ms. Manley, 68, served as Andrew's private secretary from 2001 to 2003, having previously worked as his assistant private secretary and treasurer since 1996. According to reports from The Times, she regularly accompanied the former duke on trips and has now agreed to cooperate with authorities.
The investigation has gained momentum after revelations that Ms. Manley signed a £75 cheque from a Buckingham Palace bank account to pay masseuse Monique Giannelloni in 2000. This payment was for a massage arranged by Ghislaine Maxwell that allegedly took place at the Palace, with Giannelloni claiming Andrew appeared naked during the session.
Details of the Controversial Payment
The massage professional, Monique Giannelloni, has previously stated she didn't believe proper background checks were conducted before her Palace visit and claimed she bypassed usual security procedures. While describing Andrew as "very nice and very gentlemanly," she admitted feeling "embarrassed" by his nudity.
Ms. Manley's signature on the Coutts bank account cheque has become a focal point in the investigation. When asked about discussing her time working for Andrew, she told The Times: "I would rather talk to the police than the press, not that I would have much to tell them."
Broader Investigation Context
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest occurred on his 66th birthday in February, prompted by documents suggesting he may have shared confidential information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as UK trade envoy. The former prince has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
Since his release after eleven hours in custody from Aylsham Police Station in Norfolk, Andrew has remained at his temporary residence of Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate. His permanent home at Marsh Farm is undergoing renovations.
Royal Family Response
King Charles has issued a formal statement expressing "deepest concern" about his brother's situation and pledging full cooperation with the investigation. The monarch stated: "What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation."
The King emphasized that "the law must take its course" and signed the message "Charles R." as he committed the royal family to continuing their public duties during this challenging period.
Background of the Key Witness
Charlotte Manley retired just last year from her position as chapter clerk of St George's Chapel, Windsor, a role she held since 2003 following her service to Andrew. Her decision to speak with police represents a significant development in an investigation that continues to unfold amid ongoing releases of Epstein-related documents.
