Chinese Businessman Linked to Prince Andrew Banned from UK

A Chinese businessman with ties to Prince Andrew was recently banned from entering the UK due to national security concerns. Officials worried that this man, who had become close to Prince Andrew, could use his influence for political interference by the Chinese government. The businessman, whose name wasn't disclosed, was associated with the United Front Work Department, a branch of the Chinese Communist Party designed to influence foreign entities. The UK government feared he could create relationships between high-ranking Chinese officials and significant UK figures to benefit China's interests. Prince Andrew, the younger brother of King Charles III, has faced criticism for his connections to wealthy foreigners. After stepping down from royal duties due to his relationship with the late financier and convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew's financial situation has been strained. In recent years, UK intelligence agencies have grown concerned about Chinese efforts to sway UK government policy. In 2022, MI5 warned politicians about a British-Chinese lawyer attempting to improperly influence members of Parliament. The Chinese businessman, who came to the UK as a student in 2002, developed his business advising UK companies on operations in China. Despite not living permanently in the UK, the man spent significant time there. He was barred from entering the country in November 2021 after officials found documents on his digital devices that revealed his close relationship with Prince Andrew and his advisers. The documents showed their strong bond and described ways they circumvented trusted personnel to access Prince Andrew at his residence, the Royal Lodge near Windsor Castle.