Arrested Ex-US Ambassador Helped Andrew Get Trade Envoy Job—Author

Peter Mandelson, who was arrested on misconduct allegations, pushed for Prince Andrew's controversial appointment, royal biographer says.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Peter Mandelson, the former British ambassador to the United States who was arrested on Monday on allegations of misconduct in public office, helped Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor land the role of trade envoy, which is now under police investigation, according to royal biographer Andrew Lownie.

Why it matters

The release of the Epstein Files by the U.S. Department of Justice has accelerated an already fiercely burning reputational fire for Mountbatten-Windsor and the British monarchy. The police investigations into both Mandelson and Mountbatten-Windsor have the potential to put even more material into the public domain about Epstein's relationship with the two men.

The details

Lownie, author of the biography "Entitled" about Mountbatten-Windsor, told Newsweek's "The Royal Report" podcast that "it was Mandelson who pushed very much for Andrew to be appointed as a trade envoy in 2001 against the wishes of King Charles." This account appears to be backed up by a 2001 report in The Guardian, which stated that Mandelson gave "behind-the-scenes backing" for Mountbatten-Windsor's appointment despite concerns from palace aides and politicians about his "personality and lifestyle."

  • Mountbatten-Windsor was first appointed as a trade envoy in 2001.
  • Mandelson was arrested on Monday, February 23, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
  • Mountbatten-Windsor was recently taken into custody by Thames Valley Police investigating similar allegations that he shared confidential government reports with Jeffrey Epstein during his time as a trade envoy.

The players

Peter Mandelson

The former British ambassador to the United States who was arrested on Monday on allegations of misconduct in public office.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor

Formerly known as Prince Andrew, he is the son of Queen Elizabeth II and was appointed as a trade envoy in 2001, a role that is now under police investigation.

King Charles

The current King of the United Kingdom, who is reported to have voiced reservations about Mountbatten-Windsor's suitability for the trade envoy role.

Queen Elizabeth II

The late Queen of the United Kingdom, who may have been persuaded about the suitability of Mountbatten-Windsor for the trade envoy role, according to reports.

Andrew Lownie

The author of the biography "Entitled" about Mountbatten-Windsor, who told Newsweek that Mandelson helped Mountbatten-Windsor get the trade envoy job.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was Mandelson who pushed very much for Andrew to be appointed as a trade envoy in 2001 against the wishes of King Charles.”

— Andrew Lownie, Author (Newsweek)

“When I heard about this I couldn't believe it. It shows an appalling lack of judgment. I suppose there are some countries where his presence might impress, but he is a liability.”

— Unnamed Labour MP (The Guardian)

“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”

— King Charles III (Newsweek)

What’s next

Police will continue to investigate both Mandelson and Mountbatten-Windsor. No decision has yet been made on whether to bring charges in either case.

The takeaway

The revelations about Mandelson's role in securing Mountbatten-Windsor's controversial trade envoy appointment raise further questions about the judgment of the British royal family and the influence of powerful political figures in shaping the monarchy's public image, even in the face of serious concerns.