Ex-Royal Protection Chief Calls for Inquiry into Andrew’s Epstein Links

A former head of royal protection has called for an independent inquiry into the connections between Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Jeffrey Epstein. Dai Davies, who led Scotland Yard’s Royal Protection Command from 1994 to 1998, emphasized the need for the investigation to reach the highest levels of government. This demand follows Andrew’s arrest on his 66th birthday, on suspicion of misconduct in a public office. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has not been formally charged.

Davies insists that transparency is crucial. He stated, “For too long the establishment has taken us, the public, for fools. The truth, warts and all, must come out.” He advocates for a judge-led inquiry with the authority to summon individuals from all sectors, including those connected to the Palace and government officials, to ascertain who knew what regarding Epstein’s relationships with influential figures.

Legislative Support for Inquiry

Davies highlighted the potential value of the Hillsborough Law, a proposed piece of legislation that would compel officials to be more transparent and accountable. He argued that applying this law could ensure that all relevant parties are called to testify. “I believe there has been a conspiracy of silence at all levels,” he said.

In support of the inquiry, Layla Moran, a Liberal Democrat MP, stressed the importance of understanding the extent of knowledge various state entities had regarding Andrew’s associations. She remarked, “What did the police know? What did the Palace know? What did government know?” According to Moran, the implications of this inquiry extend beyond Andrew, reaching into the core dynamics between the establishment and elite society. Transparency, she believes, is essential to uncovering the truth.

Parliamentary Actions and Controversies

As discussions surrounding Andrew’s case intensify, a group of influential MPs is considering launching a parliamentary investigation into the role of UK trade envoys. The Business and Trade Committee is set to deliberate on Tuesday regarding the governance issues related to the case and the implications of Andrew’s previous role as a trade envoy.

Andrew’s tenure as a trade envoy has been fraught with controversy. He has been criticized for excessive travel, earning the moniker “Air Miles Andy” due to his frequent use of helicopters at taxpayer expense. His initial assignment following the September 11 attacks involved a trip to New York, which faced backlash after he attended a party during his visit.

Further scrutiny arose from Andrew’s financial dealings, particularly concerning the sale of his former residence, Sunninghill Park. The home was sold to Timur Kulibayev, the son-in-law of the President of Kazakhstan, for £15 million, exceeding its £12 million asking price in 2007. His relationships with leaders from Azerbaijan, Tunisia, Libya, and Turkmenistan have also drawn questions.

While Andrew has denied any misconduct related to his Epstein connections, he has not directly addressed the latest allegations surrounding his public office conduct. As the investigation unfolds, the demand for clarity and accountability continues to resonate among political leaders and the public alike.