Newscast - Gordon Brown turns detective over Andrew - BBC Sounds
BBC World
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Gordon Brown, the former UK Prime Minister, has taken a significant step in demanding a police investigation into claims that Prince Andrew used RAF bases and taxpayer-funded jets to meet Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted paedophile. Brown has sent a five-page memorandum to multiple UK police forces, including the Metropolitan Police, Surrey Police, and Sussex Thames Valley Police, urging them to probe whether royal connections were exploited for personal gain or improper conduct. This move comes amid growing public scrutiny of the monarchy and its members’ past associations with Epstein.
Brown’s decision to act as an investigator reflects his concern over potential misuse of public resources by Andrew, who is a senior figure within the British Royal Family. The former PM argues that such actions could undermine public trust in both the monarchy and government institutions. His memorandum highlights specific instances where Andrew allegedly used RAF facilities and aircraft for private purposes, raising questions about accountability and whether royal privileges should be subject to greater oversight.
The controversy surrounding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is not new but has resurfaced due to Epstein’s connections and the broader cultural shift toward holding powerful individuals accountable. Brown’s intervention adds political weight to an already sensitive issue, potentially forcing police authorities to examine whether any wrongdoing occurred. This could have far-reaching implications for the Royal Family, as it could lead to public demands for greater transparency and stricter rules around royal conduct.
In a broader context, Brown’s actions align with increasing calls for accountability among public figures, especially those tied to controversial individuals like Epstein. His move also underscores the ongoing tension between maintaining institutional privacy and ensuring that public resources are used responsibly. While some may view his involvement as an overreach, others could see it as a necessary step to address perceived injustices and restore faith in democratic processes.
Ultimately, Brown’s demand for an investigation highlights the thin line between royal privilege and public accountability. Whether or not the police decide to pursue this case, the mere fact that it has been raised by such a prominent figure
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/22/2026