Epstein Email Points Finger at 'Charles' as Andrew Exits Trade Role
On the very day Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor announced his departure from the UK trade envoy position, convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein sent a cryptic email blaming "Charles." The message, dated 21 July 2011, stated: "I assume he knows that this is Charles' doing." This revelation emerges as the government backs Liberal Democrat efforts to force the public release of files concerning the former prince's appointment to the role.
Mounting Pressure and Arrest Follow Epstein Links
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor served as a UK trade envoy from 2001 to 2011, tasked with promoting British business interests internationally. However, his tenure was overshadowed by his association with Jeffrey Epstein, who was imprisoned in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution. The relationship led to growing scrutiny, culminating in the former duke's arrest last Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Allegations suggest he shared sensitive information with Epstein during his time as envoy.
Buckingham Palace has been approached for comment, while Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, rejecting claims of personal gain from his official role. In a related development, royal aides have reportedly banned him from horse riding, deeming it a "bad look" while under police investigation.
Political Calls for Transparency and Victim Concerns
The push for transparency has gained momentum, with Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey urging the government to release all flight logs and documents related to Epstein's use of British airports. This follows former Prime Minister Gordon Brown's letters to six police forces, demanding investigations into whether taxpayer-funded jets and RAF bases were used for meetings with the financier.
Meanwhile, former chief prosecutor Nazir Afzal has criticised the handling of Epstein's victims, stating they are being ignored as state interests take priority. "When the state is the victim, the state moves at pace. When women are alleged victims the state barely moves at all," he told The Guardian. Afzal highlighted allegations from one woman who claimed Epstein sent her to the UK, where she was attacked, underscoring a perceived lack of urgency in addressing sexual assault and trafficking claims.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Probes
Analysis by The Times indicates Epstein trafficked women through British airports until just a month before his 2019 arrest, with flight logs showing over 60 private jet journeys in and out of the UK. Police are examining whether victims were trafficked via commercial airports and RAF bases. As media have been warned against approaching Andrew's neighbours on the King's Estate, the case continues to unfold, with Sir Keir Starmer facing calls for a public inquiry into Epstein's activities in the UK.
The email from Epstein, which followed an associate's message noting "Lots of TV coverage on PA and always big feature on you. Insane," adds a layer of intrigue, with "PA" believed to refer to the former prince Andrew. As files related to his trade envoy appointment are set for release, the scandal deepens, reflecting ongoing tensions between royal protocols, legal accountability, and victim advocacy in high-profile cases.
