Fresh allegations have surfaced about ex-Prince Andrew’s spending during his decade-long tenure as the UK’s trade envoy. Retired civil servants have claimed that taxpayer funds were used to cover personal expenses, including so-called “massage services,” during overseas trips. The claims, which date back more than 20 years, have reignited debate about oversight and accountability in publicly funded roles.
According to whistleblowing former government officials who spoke to the BBC, expenses linked to alleged “massage services” during Andrew’s time as a trade representative were approved despite internal objections.
One retired civil servant claimed he refused to authorise payment for such a request following a Middle East visit in the early 2000s. He said, “I thought it was wrong… I’d said we mustn’t pay it.” However, he alleged he was later “overruled by senior staff,” and the expense was ultimately covered.
Ex-Prince Andrew’s ‘massage services’ costs were covered by taxpayers, claims ex official
The claims relate to Andrew’s role as the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment between 2001 and 2011. Although the position was unpaid, overseas travel, staffing support, and related costs were funded through public money.
A second former Whitehall official, who reportedly oversaw finances connected to trade trips, told the BBC he had “absolutely no doubt” similar expenses existed. He further alleged that spending during some visits appeared excessive. He claimed flights, hotel arrangements, and entourage costs often lacked sufficient scrutiny. Continuing, he added that approvals were frequently treated as a “rubber stamp” rather than undergoing a detailed review.
Both officials spoke anonymously and said they decided to come forward after hearing suggestions that no concerns had been raised internally at the time. The BBC reported it has not seen direct proof of massage-related payments. However, the publication confirmed the whistleblowers held roles close to the financial administration of the trips.
The allegations have also revived broader questions about oversight during Andrew’s tenure. One former trade official alleged the then-prince “was seen as a liability” and could sometimes disrupt diplomatic efforts. They claimed teams spent months preparing visits that did not always deliver positive outcomes.
Political pressure may now follow. MPs on the Business and Trade Committee are expected to discuss whether to examine how trade envoys were monitored in the past. Meanwhile, some lawmakers have called for a wider inquiry into accountability and spending practices linked to the role.
Originally reported by Zahrah Patel on Reality Tea.
