Queen Elizabeth II backed Prince Andrew's trade envoy role without vetting

Declassified documents reveal that Queen Elizabeth II personally supported Prince Andrew's appointment as a UK trade envoy in 2001, a role that was granted without any due diligence or background checks. The files, released by the National Archives, show that the monarch was involved in discussions about her son's position, which was meant to promote British business interests abroad. The appointment came despite concerns about Andrew's lack of experience and potential conflicts of interest. The documents indicate that the Queen's backing was crucial in securing the role for Andrew, who served as a trade envoy for a decade until 2011. The revelations have reignited debates about royal involvement in public appointments and the lack of oversight in such processes.