King Charles III has given permission to Buckingham Palace staff to provide police with files and documents related to the activities of former Prince Andrew amid the scandal surrounding his relationship with American financier Jeffrey Epstein, The Observer reported, citing a royal family source.
The king's decision will give police access to documents and emails, as well as government files related to the former prince's work as a UK trade representative.
“We have said we will cooperate fully and wholeheartedly“, a royal family source said, citing the king's statement.
The Observer added that the police already have greater opportunities to expand its investigation into the former prince. “If they investigate one crime and find another, they are not going to ignore it“, said senior criminal lawyer Marcus Johnston.
On February 19, The Telegraph and the BBC reported the arrest of former Prince Andrew in connection with its investigation into the Epstein allegations.
The Telegraph reported that former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown had requested a police investigation into Andrew's use of Royal Air Force planes and bases to meet with the financier while the former prince was a trade envoy.
On the same day, Charles III said he was “deeply concerned” about the news about Andrew and the allegations of misconduct in public office. “There will now be a full, fair and proper investigation into this matter, in an appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities“, the royal family said in a statement.