Chris Bryant slams Prince Andrew as ‘arrogant and entitled’: Government backs explosive release of trade envoy files
Chris Bryant supports Andrew file release
Trade minister Chris Bryant has launched a scathing attack on Prince Andrew, describing him in Parliament as “a rude, arrogant and entitled man” while confirming the UK government will support a motion to release official documents relating to Andrew’s appointment as trade envoy in 2001.
The debate in the House of Commons marks a significant political moment, as MPs move to scrutinise the former Duke of York’s decade-long role as the UK’s special representative for international trade and investment. The motion, tabled by the Liberal Democrats, seeks full disclosure of papers connected to the creation of the role and Andrew’s appointment, including correspondence involving former Labour minister Peter Mandelson.
Bryant confirmed the government’s backing of the motion but warned that no material would be released if it risked prejudicing an ongoing police investigation.
Government Supports Transparency, With Conditions
Speaking in the Commons, Bryant said: “We support this motion today,” adding that the government would comply fully while protecting the integrity of any police inquiry.
Andrew was arrested last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office and later released under investigation. The probe follows renewed scrutiny after US authorities released further files connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein earlier this year.
Bryant stressed that while transparency is vital, “it would be wrong” to publish documents that might interfere with due process. He also pledged full cooperation with Thames Valley Police and any other relevant force.
Bryant’s Blistering Criticism of Andrew
In one of the most striking moments of the debate, Bryant accused Andrew of failing to distinguish between public duty and personal interest.
“Colleagues and many civil servants have told me their own stories,” Bryant told MPs, alleging a pattern of “self-aggrandising and self-enriching hustle.”
He recalled Andrew visiting Tonypandy to meet sea cadets, claiming the former royal insisted on arriving by helicopter and showed “next to no interest” in the young people present. Bryant added pointedly: “Arrogance is not a crime, fortunately, I suppose.”
The comments reflect a dramatic shift in tone within Parliament, where discussion of members of the Royal Family has historically been restrained.
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What Did Andrew’s Trade Envoy Role Involve?
Andrew served as the UK’s special representative for international trade and investment from 2001 to 2011. The position, often referred to as trade envoy, involved promoting British business overseas, attracting foreign investment and building relationships with global leaders and executives.
The role placed him in privileged diplomatic and commercial circles worldwide, including high-profile forums such as the World Economic Forum in Davos.
He stepped down in 2011 amid criticism over his links to Epstein.
Lib Dem Push for Accountability
The motion was introduced by Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, who argued that no one, “regardless of title”, should be beyond parliamentary scrutiny.
Davey has apologised for praising Andrew’s work as “excellent” during a Commons debate in 2011, saying he regrets those comments in light of what has since emerged.
The motion seeks:
- All papers relating to the creation of the trade envoy role
- Vetting and due diligence communications
- Correspondence involving Mandelson regarding Andrew’s suitability
Bryant reminded MPs that warnings about Andrew’s associations were raised in 2011 but were defended by senior figures at the time.
Police Investigation Limits Immediate Disclosure
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle warned MPs to exercise restraint to avoid prejudicing any future prosecution. Under parliamentary rules, while MPs have privilege in debates, they must avoid comments that could interfere with legal proceedings.
Bryant reiterated that documents would be published “as fast as we can,” but noted that some materials are decades old and may take time to process.
Why This Debate Matters
The Commons debate represents a broader reckoning about accountability, privilege and transparency within Britain’s political and royal institutions. It also signals Parliament’s willingness to scrutinise even senior royals amid mounting public pressure.
Bryant concluded by affirming the principle that “everyone is equal under the law and nobody is above the law.”
Andrew has previously denied wrongdoing in relation to Epstein and has not responded to recent specific allegations reported following the US file releases.
FAQ: Chris Bryant and Prince Andrew Trade Envoy Files
Why did Chris Bryant criticise Prince Andrew?
Chris Bryant described Andrew as “rude, arrogant and entitled” during a Commons debate on releasing documents related to his trade envoy appointment.
What documents are MPs trying to release?
MPs are seeking all files relating to Andrew’s 2001 appointment as trade envoy, including vetting documents and communications involving Peter Mandelson.
Why is there a police investigation?
Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office and released under investigation. The inquiry follows renewed scrutiny after US Epstein-related files were released.
Did the government agree to release the files?
Yes. The government supports the motion but says documents will not be published if doing so could prejudice the police investigation.
What was Prince Andrew’s trade envoy role?
He served as the UK’s special representative for international trade and investment from 2001 to 2011, promoting UK business abroad.
Did Andrew deny wrongdoing?
Yes. He has previously denied wrongdoing related to Epstein and has not responded to specific recent allegations.
Why is this debate significant?
It reflects growing demands for transparency and parliamentary scrutiny over senior public figures, including members of the Royal Family.