Former Prince Andrew Allegedly Used UK Taxpayer Funds for Massages
Former Prince Andrew, stripped of his royal titles due to his ties to deceased financier Jeffrey Epstein, is at the center of controversy regarding questionable expenses during his time as a UK trade envoy. Allegations have surfaced claiming he requested the use of UK taxpayer funds for personal massage services during a trip to the Middle East in the early 2000s.
Details of Allegations Against Former Prince Andrew
These claims were made by a retired employee of the UK Trade and Investment department, who spoke anonymously to the BBC. The former official expressed his concern over the misuse of public funds, recalling that his objections to these payments were disregarded by superiors.
Role and Responsibilities
- Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor served as a special trade envoy from 2001 to 2011.
- This position was unpaid, but expenses were covered by the government.
The ex-prince celebrated his 66th birthday on February 19, during which he was detained for questioning by Thames Valley Police. He is suspected of sharing confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein in relation to his public duties.
Cost Concerns and Public Opinion
Another former British official, who fully supports the initial claims, discussed the exorbitant costs associated with Andrew’s trips. He noted that there seemed to be little regard for financial responsibility, as expenditures were not personally borne by the royal.
The witnesses initially approached Andrew Lownie, biographer of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who is currently updating his book entitled *Entitled* amid the ongoing revelations linked to Epstein.
Legal Troubles and Accusations
- In 2021, Andrew was accused of sexual assault by Virginia Giuffre, a notable Epstein victim.
- He reached a multi-million dollar settlement with her outside of court in 2022.
Virginia Giuffre tragically ended her life in April 2023, just months before the release of her autobiography, *Nobody’s Girl*. Andrew has consistently denied knowing Giuffre and has rejected any allegations of misconduct.
