Good Morning Britain issued a breaking news update on Prince Andrew on Friday morning, after newly released files revealed the late Queen was “very keen” for her son to become a trade envoy in 2000.
Presenters Ranvir Singh and Paul Brand discussed the news under 'Breaking News' banners. Paul noted that the Queen wanted Andrew to be “parachuted into that role” and that notes to ministers suggested he intended to “prefer the more sophisticated countries”.
Guest presenter Salma Shah described the revelations as “pretty shocking”, adding that the role was previously held by the Duke of Kent and that the late Queen likely saw Andrew as “the perfect person” because he was “a member of the Royal Family” and “available”.
The programme later revisited the topic with royal biographer Robert Hardman and royal expert Chris Ship. The memo from 2000 shows Sir David Wright, then chief executive of British Trade International, stating it was the Queen's “wish” for Andrew to take the job, which gave him access to senior government and business contacts globally.
Sir David said he had a “wide-ranging discussion” with the Queen's private secretary before suggesting a “suitable role” would be sought for Andrew, then in the Royal Navy. The role would include regional trips, two or three overseas visits each year, and a “leading trade mission from time to time”.
