Prince Andrew trade envoy files

The UK government has released confidential papers related to the 2001 appointment of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as a trade envoy.

The documents show that late Queen Elizabeth II was 'very keen' for her son to take on a prominent role in promoting national interests.

The release of the files was forced by legislation after lawmakers raised questions about Andrew's conduct and his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.

The papers suggest that Andrew was never formally vetted for the position, which he held for a decade while traveling extensively at taxpayer expense.

Meanwhile, police have announced that a separate investigation into Andrew for alleged misconduct in public office has been broadened to include claims of sexual misconduct and corruption.