'Big questions' for Palace over Andrew, says ex-head of UK royal protection

Key Concepts

• Royalty Protection: The specialized police unit responsible for the security of members of the Royal Family.
• Protection Officers (POs): Highly trained police officers assigned to protect individuals, including anticipating threats and conducting advance security checks.
• Misconduct in Public Office: The offense Prince Andrew is currently being investigated for, relating to potential abuse of his position.
• Vetting: The process of background checks and investigations into individuals who may have access to protected persons.
• Victim-Centric Approach: Prioritizing the needs and justice for victims of alleged crimes, particularly in cases of trafficking.

Royal Protection & the Prince Andrew Investigation: A Detailed Account

This transcript details a Sky News interview with a former head of Royalty Protection, discussing the security arrangements surrounding Prince Andrew and the ongoing investigation into allegations against him. The conversation centers on the responsibilities of protection officers, the potential for them to provide crucial information to the investigation, and criticisms of the Royal Family’s handling of the situation.

I. The Role and Responsibilities of Protection Officers

The interviewee emphasizes that the primary role of protection officers is “to protect,” both domestically and internationally. Prince Andrew, throughout his life, benefited from 24/7 protection, provided by various police forces including Tame’s Valley, Surrey, and the Metropolitan Police. This protection involved:

• Constant Presence: POs were typically with Prince Andrew around the clock, with exceptions only during nighttime hours when they remained nearby for rapid response.
• Advance Security: Teams would conduct “preliminary checks” on individuals Prince Andrew was scheduled to meet, investigating their backgrounds and potential threats.
• Extensive Travel: POs accompanied Prince Andrew on trips to his multiple residences, including locations in the United States (Virgin Islands, New Mexico, and Florida).
• Selection Criteria: POs were specifically chosen for their “diplomacy ability” and capacity to operate independently, away from direct managerial oversight.

The interviewee acknowledges that while POs don’t typically keep detailed personal logs, records of comings and goings were maintained by their leaders and managers, though the current location and retention period of these records are unknown. He expresses regret for not having been more involved in overseeing these records himself, stating, “I wish I had now and perhaps I could give you further advice.”

II. The Current Investigation & Potential Witness Testimony

The interview addresses the possibility of POs being called to testify as part of the investigation into Prince Andrew’s alleged misconduct. The interviewee expresses surprise that it has taken so long for an investigation to commence, stating, “where have you been for the last six years?” He specifically references his repeated calls for investigation following the “infamous interview” with Emily Maitlis on Newsnight. He also points to the recent allegation that Prince Andrew requested a PO and a press secretary to conduct an investigation into Virginia Giuffre as a further impetus for official action.

He believes it is “inconceivable” that POs, having accompanied Prince Andrew for years and to multiple locations, would have observed nothing relevant to the allegations. However, he stresses that these are “allegations” and that the police should be allowed to proceed with their investigation.

III. Investigative Approach & Scope

The interviewee contrasts the current investigative approach – a formal appeal for information – with the methods he would have employed as a street cop, stating he would have “knocked on their doors” to secure testimony. He advocates for a broader investigation encompassing not only the police but also “all the private secretaries, those who advise the late queen, the king,” and others who have been named in connection with the allegations.

He highlights the importance of focusing on the victims, emphasizing that they have been “let down by successive individuals, by the palace, some would say.” He believes victims deserve justice, particularly in the United States, where he feels they are not receiving adequate support. He notes the investigation currently involves nine forces investigating trafficking.

IV. Royal Family Response & Internal Inquiries

The interviewee is critical of the Royal Family’s response to the allegations, describing it as “a little late, frankly.” He questions whether sufficient inquiries were made before the reported £12 million settlement with Virginia Giuffre. He acknowledges the family’s potential reluctance to air “dirty laundry in public” but argues that this should not have prevented a thorough internal investigation.

He states, “There was no internal inquiry as far as I know. And if there was, where was it? Who did it?” He suggests a lack of proactive investigation and accountability within the palace structure.

V. Legal Status & Ongoing Investigation

The interviewee reiterates that Prince Andrew denies all allegations and that his arrest is for “suspicion of misconduct in public office.” He concludes by emphasizing that the current investigation is only a “start” and should encompass all allegations, with a continued focus on the needs of the victims.

Notable Quote:

“It’s about time frankly and I respectfully say where have you been for the last six years?” – Former Head of Royalty Protection, expressing frustration at the delayed investigation.

Technical Terms:

• Tame’s Valley: A police force area in Surrey, England.
• Vetting: The process of thoroughly investigating an individual’s background and suitability for access to sensitive information or individuals.
• Misconduct in Public Office: A common law offence in the UK relating to the abuse of a public office for personal gain or to cause harm.

This interview provides a critical perspective on the security arrangements surrounding Prince Andrew and the handling of the allegations against him, highlighting the potential role of protection officers as witnesses and advocating for a comprehensive, victim-centered investigation.