During a trip to Hong Kong in 2010 as the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, Andrew, also known as the former Duke of York, allegedly had Asian sex workers brought to his hotel, according to claims made by his biographer Andrew Lownie. The incident reportedly occurred when Andrew occupied the top floor of a hotel in Hong Kong for business purposes.
Although prostitution is legal in Hong Kong, organized prostitution activities are prohibited by law. Various regulations exist to combat activities such as maintaining a vice establishment, facilitating prostitution, living off the earnings of prostitution, and public solicitation.
Following engagements at the Shanghai World Expo in Beijing, Andrew traveled to Hong Kong the next month. Upon his arrival in Hong Kong on October 17, 2010, he conducted several business activities, including visits to China Merchants Bank, meetings with business executives, and engagements at prestigious hotels like the Mandarin Oriental and the Ritz-Carlton.
Records show that Andrew returned to London on October 20, 2010, after completing his overseas trips as the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment. The costs of his trips, including flights and accommodations, have raised discussions regarding funding sources, with some expenses being covered by the UKTI while other costs were billed to UK taxpayers.
Investigations into royal finances revealed that Andrew’s overseas trips incurred significant expenses, with his flights and accommodations during his tenure as the UK’s Special Representative estimated to be around £4 million. Additionally, reports of Andrew’s involvement with prostitutes have surfaced in the past, including allegations of hiring women during his travels.
Furthermore, details emerged regarding Andrew’s connections to China, particularly his relationship with an alleged Chinese spy named Yang Tengbo. Tengbo, who was banned from the UK due to national security concerns, reportedly had a level of trust with Andrew and was involved in activities to influence high-profile individuals.
Despite these controversial associations, Andrew’s office stated that he had severed ties with Tengbo following official advice and emphasized that sensitive matters were not discussed between them. The High Court upheld the ban on Tengbo, affirming the threat to national security posed by his actions. Buckingham Palace has been approached for comment on these developments.
