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Police Continue Search of Royal Lodge as MPs Weigh Probe into Trade Envoy Role Following Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s Arrest

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor

Windsor, February 21, 2026 – The Europe Today: Police officers continued their search of Royal Lodge for a third consecutive day following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as the government considers removing the former prince from the royal line of succession.

The sprawling Windsor residence, which served as Andrew’s home for more than two decades, remains the focus of an intensive investigation. While the estate lies well beyond the gates of Windsor Great Park and largely out of public view, authorities are understood to be meticulously examining every part of the property for documents and electronic devices that may assist in ongoing inquiries. Officers are expected to remain at the site until at least Monday.

Andrew was arrested and later released under investigation amid allegations that he shared sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein during his 10-year tenure as a UK trade envoy. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Meanwhile, Members of Parliament on the House of Commons’ Business and Trade Committee are set to meet to consider launching a parliamentary inquiry into the future of the UK trade envoy role, previously held by Andrew. According to the Press Association, discussions will take place on Tuesday, with a focus on governance and systemic oversight rather than the specifics of the ongoing criminal investigation.

Any potential inquiry would initially examine structural and accountability issues within the broader trade envoy framework, avoiding commentary that could prejudice legal proceedings. MPs may also assess the appointment process and accountability mechanisms associated with the role, an issue first reported by The Guardian.

During his time as trade envoy, Andrew faced repeated scrutiny and controversy. He was accused of overusing helicopters at taxpayers’ expense, including for golf-related engagements linked to the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. A post-9/11 visit to New York, one of his early assignments, also drew criticism after he attended a social event during the trip.

Further controversy arose over his associations with Timor Kulibayev, son-in-law of Kazakhstan’s president, who purchased Andrew’s Sunninghill Park residence for £3 million above the £12 million asking price. Questions were also raised about his links to political figures in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Tunisia, Libya and Turkmenistan.

As investigations continue, the unfolding developments have intensified scrutiny over both Andrew’s past official responsibilities and the broader governance of the UK’s trade representation system.