UMVA has learned that the Queen played a significant role in securing a prestigious position for her son, with newly released documents revealing a behind-the-scenes push for his appointment.
The documents show that Mountbatten-Windsor was set to take on a more active role at BTI, with a telegram to all trade staff outlining his new responsibilities. This move comes after his cousin's decision to step down from the position.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Mountbatten-Windsor's interests and preferences were carefully considered in the appointment process. In one letter, the Head of Protocol Division Kathryn Colvin noted his enthusiasm for working with youth and cultural events, particularly ballet.
Mountbatten-Windsor's background in trade and investment promotion is well-documented. He served as Special Representative for International Trade and Investment for over a decade before stepping down amid controversy over his expenses in 2011.
The former royal's reputation was further tarnished last year when he was stripped of his titles following revelations about his friendship with a notorious sex offender. Despite this, the government has maintained that no formal due diligence or vetting process was undertaken before selecting Mountbatten-Windsor for the role.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the Liberal Democrats had called for the release of communications around the appointment to be made public. Trade minister Chris Bryant told MPs that the government had found no evidence of a thorough vetting process, but insisted that the appointment was a continuation of the Royal Family's involvement in trade and investment promotion work.
The release of these documents has raised questions about the appointment process and the level of scrutiny applied to Mountbatten-Windsor's candidacy. The government's handling of the situation has sparked debate among MPs and the public.
