MPs agree to release files relating to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's appointment as UK trade envoy

Concluding a debate held today in the House of Commons, Trade Minister Sir Chris Bryant said the Government would release the files "as soon as is practicable and possible within the law".

However, he said any documents relating to the offence of misconduct in public office, for which Andrew was arrested on suspicion last week, could be withheld on the advice of prosecutors.

This morning, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Ed Davey, apologised to the victims of Jeffrey Epstein for comments he made praising Andrew during a 2011 parliamentary debate.

Sir Ed addressed remarks he made while serving as trade minister in the coalition Government.

"First of all, can I apologise to all those victims of Epstein who may have read those words and been upset by them. I really regret them," he told the BBC.

At the time, Andrew was serving as the UK's trade envoy.

Sir Ed expressed considerable frustration at having been placed in such a position, describing himself as "pretty angry" about the circumstances.

He emphasised the importance of ensuring that individuals can be held accountable regardless of their status or connections.

"I think anyone who has had any comment to make on Andrew as trade envoy over the years will be pretty angry."

The Liberal Democrats demanded that documents connected to the former prince's appointment as trade envoy be made public.

Sir Chris Bryant claimed he called for the former Duke of York to be sacked as trade envoy numerous times in 2011.

The Minister drew attention to the current police work, saying: "It is absolutely crucial that the integrity of their investigation is protected".

"Now these proceedings are underway, it'll be wrong of me to say anything that might prejudice them."

Labour MP Rachael Maskell said Andrew "must be held to account", adding: "The web of abuse surrounding Epstein and his associates must be brought to book."

Green Party MP Sian Berry accused the Royal Family of being "sheltered from scrutiny", explaining that "It's very clear now what a risk this can pose".

Andrew served as the UK's trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.

He has denied any wrongdoing over his Epstein links, but has not directly responded to the latest allegations.

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