Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's Trade Envoy Role Under Renewed Scrutiny
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, pictured in 2009 during his tenure as the special representative for international trade and investment, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, bringing his former high-profile role into sharp focus. He denies any wrongdoing, but the arrest has reignited questions about the nature and legacy of his appointment.
What Was the Trade Envoy Job Held by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor?
The Duke of York, as he was then known, assumed the position of the UK's special representative for international trade and investment in October 2001. According to UK Trade & Investment, the role involved an extensive program of targeted engagements both domestically and overseas to promote the interests of UK industry and the nation as a whole. In essence, it encompassed high-level lobbying efforts and the handling of sensitive confidential briefs related to investment opportunities, requiring close coordination with the UK's trade and diplomatic missions abroad.
Who Appointed Him and What Was the Political Backing?
He began the role during Tony Blair's Labour government, following his retirement from the navy in July 2001. In 2011, No 10, under the Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition, clarified that the appointment was made with the agreement of the then foreign secretary Jack Straw and the trade and industry secretary Patricia Hewitt. Support for Mountbatten-Windsor extended beyond Labour, with Conservative figures like then-chancellor George Osborne expressing confidence in his performance, stating he had promoted British exports effectively. Former trade minister Digby Jones also endorsed him, emphasizing his commitment to putting the country first.
Was Mountbatten-Windsor a Controversial Choice from the Start?
Yes, his appointment was contentious from the outset. Even in the early 2000s, he faced criticism due to his reputation as a playboy prince. Author Andrew Lownie, in his book Entitled, details how former trade secretary Peter Mandelson assisted Mountbatten-Windsor in securing the role, while his brother, then Prince Charles, attempted to block it, citing concerns about his ability to maintain tact and discretion.
Whom Did He Meet and What Were the Key Controversies?
The role involved meetings with UK and international business leaders and foreign officials to facilitate introductions. While some engagements were routine and beneficial, dealings with regimes like Kazakhstan and Libya sparked controversy. For instance, Timur Kulibayev, son-in-law of the Kazakh president, purchased Mountbatten-Windsor's former home at Sunninghill Park in 2007 for an alleged £3 million over the asking price. Additionally, ties to Saif Gaddafi, son of the then Libyan leader, led to calls for his removal from the position in 2011.
Did Mountbatten-Windsor Receive Payment for the Job?
No, there was no salary for the post. However, expenses and travel costs were covered, with one MP estimating in 2011 that this had cost taxpayers approximately £4 million over a decade, excluding protection officer expenses.
Could the Job Description Benefit the UK?
Potentially, yes. The UK continues to utilize trade envoys, including parliamentarians in region-specific roles and high-profile figures like former cricketer Ian Botham, appointed as a UK trade ambassador to Australia in 2021. These positions aim to bolster international trade and investment, though Mountbatten-Windsor's case highlights the risks associated with such appointments.
