King Charles III has signaled his willingness to cooperate with police investigating claims that Prince Andrew shared confidential trade reports with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The palace stated Monday that the King is ready to “support” the inquiry, marking his first public intervention in the unfolding matter.
The response from Buckingham Palace came after Thames Valley Police announced it was “assessing” reports concerning the alleged transmission of trade reports to Epstein in 2010. The police force serves areas west of London, including Windsor, where Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, previously resided.
According to reports, the alleged sharing of information occurred during a Southeast Asia tour undertaken by the then-Prince Andrew in his role as Britain’s envoy for international trade. Recently uncovered emails suggest the former prince sent the reports to Epstein.
“The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct,” the palace said in a statement. “While the specific claims in question are for Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect.”
The palace also reiterated the King and Queen Camilla’s sympathy for the victims of Epstein’s abuse. “As was previously stated, Their Majesties’ thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse,” the statement continued.
The police investigation was prompted by a report from an anti-monarchy campaigner who alleged suspected misconduct in public office and breaches of Britain’s Official Secrets Act. Thames Valley Police confirmed receipt of the report and stated This proves being assessed in line with established procedures.
The developments follow the release last month of over 3 million pages of documents by the U.S. Justice Department related to the Epstein case. These documents have brought renewed scrutiny to individuals connected to Epstein, including members of the British royal family.
Separately, new details have emerged regarding the involvement of a King Charles aide in the Epstein scandal. Peter Loughborough, currently lord steward to King Charles, allegedly oversaw royal protection at Epstein’s home in 2010. Emails released show that two Metropolitan Police protection officers appeared to have resided at Epstein’s New York property for over a week, with Epstein personally offering accommodation.
The correspondence indicates that Loughborough, then commanding Scotland Yard’s royalty and diplomatic protection unit, supervised the decision allowing the officers to accept Epstein’s hospitality while guarding Prince Andrew during a U.S. Trip. Epstein had already served an 18-month prison sentence for soliciting prostitution from a minor at the time.
Emails show that Epstein inquired about accommodation for security personnel three days before Andrew’s arrival, and Andrew confirmed the need for rooms for two officers. Arrangements were then made through Epstein’s executive assistant, Lesley Groff, to house the officers at Epstein’s Manhattan townhouse.
The timing of these revelations adds further pressure on the royal family as the police investigation into Prince Andrew’s alleged sharing of trade secrets progresses. The King’s statement signals a willingness to address the ongoing concerns surrounding his brother’s conduct and to cooperate with law enforcement authorities.
