Business Minister Chris Bryant and Liberal Democrats said the absence of documented vetting is "shocking and deeply troubling," arguing it raises serious questions about standards for royal appointments and who approved them at the time.
Andrew was arrested in February and released after about 11 hours; he has denied wrongdoing. The King said he had learned of the news with concern and insisted the law must take its course. Royal author Robert Jobson suggested the Queen backed Andrew despite objections from King Charles. Andrew previously lost military roles and patronages, and his ties to Jeffrey Epstein later drew further scrutiny; Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025.