A former royal aide has recalled the awkward second Andrew fell into “frosty silence” after she gave a blunt reply throughout her Palace job interview.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (Picture: Getty)
A former royal aide has recalled the second a job interview with Prince Andrew was met with an uncomfortable silence after she answered candidly about his public picture. Ailsa Anderson, who held the place of the Queen’s Press Secretary between 2001 and 2013, described how she was questioned straight by the Duke of York when making use of for a job within the royal family greater than twenty years in the past. Her account has resurfaced as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor faces renewed scrutiny following his latest arrest.
Andrew was launched beneath investigation after being held on suspicion of misconduct in public workplace linked to his affiliation with convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. The previous prince, who beforehand served because the UK’s commerce envoy, is accused of sharing delicate info with Epstein. He denies wrongdoing in relation to his ties to Epstein however has indirectly addressed the most recent claims.
Talking on The Solar’s Inside Royals: Andrew’s Downfall documentary, Anderson stated: “So, I joined the royal family in 2001 because the assistant press secretary to the Queen. I in all probability noticed Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, on a weekly foundation and, if there have been massive points that arose, he would ask my recommendation, ask my counsel and see what I assumed as nicely.
“I used to be truly interviewed by Prince Andrew for the job, to be trustworthy. One of many questions was how I’d enhance the picture of members of the Royal Household. {A photograph} had only recently been revealed of Prince Andrew on a yacht surrounded by a variety of topless ladies. And I stated, “Effectively, sir, I would not be photographed with topless ladies and seem in newspapers.” There was a quiet, type of frosty silence. And I assumed, “Oh gosh, that is me. That is curtains for me.” However I nonetheless acquired the job.”
Her recollection gives a glimpse into the inner dynamics of the Royal Family at a time when Andrew’s public picture was beneath strain.
The newest controversy erupted after thousands and thousands of recordsdata related to the Epstein case have been launched by the US Division of Justice. Shortly afterwards, Andrew was arrested, turning into the primary senior royal in trendy historical past to face such motion.
On Thursday night, he was photographed leaving Aylsham police station in Norfolk after round 11 hours in custody. He appeared slouched at the back of a car as he was pushed away. Thames Valley Police confirmed he had been launched beneath investigation.
Officers additionally carried out searches at a property in Norfolk — Andrew’s dwelling on the Sandringham Property — which have now concluded. Searches at his former residence, Royal Lodge in Windsor, Berkshire, are ongoing.
Andrew later returned to Sandringham in a automobile that handed ready reporters. His brother, King Charles III, issued a written assertion earlier within the day, expressing his “deepest concern” on the growth.
“I’ve discovered with the deepest concern the information about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public workplace.
“What now follows is the complete, honest and correct course of by which this situation is investigated within the acceptable method and by the suitable authorities. On this, as I’ve stated earlier than, they’ve our full and wholehearted help and co-operation.
“Let me state clearly: the legislation should take its course.
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“As this course of continues, it could not be proper for me to remark additional on this matter. In the meantime, my household and I’ll proceed in our responsibility and repair to you all.”
The message was signed merely, “Charles R.”
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