Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested last Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office and subsequently released under investigation eleven hours later. Searches are ongoing at his former residence, Royal Lodge.
Details Emerge Regarding Security Arrangements
The arrest follows the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. Emails within those files suggest arrangements were made for Mountbatten-Windsor to stay with Epstein in December 2010. Correspondence indicates a request for accommodations for both Mountbatten-Windsor and his Metropolitan Police protection officers.
Internal emails from Epstein’s staff confirm there was space for Mountbatten-Windsor’s bodyguards, with one assigned to the 4th floor and another to the 5th floor of Epstein’s New York property. The emails also suggest a temporary security code was provided to allow Mountbatten-Windsor and his officers access.
A message from December 1, 2010, the night before a dinner party hosted by Epstein, stated that Mountbatten-Windsor’s two protection officers, along with state security, would be present.
The Metropolitan Police has stated it does not comment on security arrangements for protected individuals and has not confirmed whether the officers stayed at Epstein’s home or were given a security code. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) reviewed official travel plans from 2008 and 2009 undertaken by Mountbatten-Windsor, but confirmed the Royal Visits Committee does not review private travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Royal Visits Committee responsible for?
The Royal Visits Committee is responsible for reviewing plans for official travel undertaken by working members of the Royal Family.
Who is involved in the Royal Visits Committee?
The committee consists of senior representatives from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the Royal Household, No10, the Department for Business and Trade, and the Cabinet Office.
What did the FCDO review?
The FCDO reviewed the plans for official travel undertaken in 2008 and 2009 by the then Duke of York.
As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen whether further details will emerge regarding the nature of the alleged misconduct and the extent of any potential involvement by others.
