A Call for Transparency Over a Royal Trade Role

The House of Commons has moved to demand that documents about a former prince’s decade‑long service as a UK trade envoy be made public. The motion, led by the Liberal Democrats, seeks to uncover how he was selected and whether his ties to a notorious financier affected his work. Trade minister Chris Bryant told MPs that the government would release the files “as soon as practicable and possible within law. ” He added that any release could be limited by an ongoing police probe into the former prince’s conduct. The investigation concerns allegations that he shared confidential information with a convicted sex offender while serving as an envoy. The prince has not answered questions from the BBC about these accusations, which surfaced after U. S. documents involving the financier were released in January. He has repeatedly denied wrongdoing, but his arrest last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office has raised new concerns.Bryant also addressed calls to strip the prince from his place in the royal succession. He said the government is working quickly on legislation that could remove him, though no specific date has been set. He warned that influence can be as harmful as power and urged the legal system to hold those who abuse it accountable. Some MPs want a full public inquiry into how trade envoys are chosen. The Business and Trade Committee chair said an investigation could start only after the police case concludes, but that they are already gathering information to be ready when the time comes. Other lawmakers highlighted the lack of transparency surrounding the royal family. A Green Party MP pointed out that certain communications are exempt from public disclosure under a freedom‑of‑information loophole, and called for the release of all correspondence between royals and the financier. Overall, the debate shows a push for greater openness about appointments that involve public money and potential conflicts of interest. The government’s willingness to cooperate with the motion may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.