Published: 23 February 2026 . The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online
Former British prime minister Gordon Brown has publicly called on multiple UK police forces to investigate whether Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor used Royal Air Force (RAF) bases and taxpayer‑funded flights to facilitate meetings with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — an appeal that has added fresh scrutiny to the sprawling Epstein‑royal scandal.
In letters sent to six police constabularies, including the Metropolitan Police, Surrey, Sussex, Thames Valley, Norfolk and Bedfordshire forces, Brown urged law enforcement to consider whether the use of RAF jets and bases — facilities funded by the UK taxpayer — was appropriate or lawful when used for meetings between Andrew and Epstein. The correspondence suggests there may be “new and additional information” that merits a fuller inquiry.
The former prime minister’s appeal focuses on flight logs and records linking Epstein’s private jet — infamously known as the “Lolita Express” — to military airfields such as RAF Marham in Norfolk and RAF Northolt in west London, as well as commercial airports. One such flight in December 2000, involving Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, landed at RAF Marham before reportedly proceeding to the Sandringham Estate, located near the base. Brown has asked whether Epstein was explicitly granted access and whether Andrew may have facilitated it.
The allegations come amid broader investigations into Andrew’s connections with Epstein and the conduct of his former protection officers. Police have been reviewing information and are asking former protection personnel whether they observed anything relevant during his service, as files released by U.S. authorities continue to be assessed.
Andrew, who was arrested earlier this year on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to his time as a UK trade envoy, has consistently denied wrongdoing. Buckingham Palace has said it will cooperate with enquiries, while law enforcement continues to gather evidence.
Ministry of Defence guidance states that private or commercial aircraft may use RAF airfields when capacity allows and appropriate fees are paid, but Brown’s appeal centres on the purpose of these landings and whether due diligence was undertaken before granting access, particularly given Epstein’s criminal convictions.
The call for a probe has sparked debate in Parliament and the media about transparency, use of public resources and accountability for high‑profile figures. Some voices in Westminster have suggested a judge‑led inquiry or even fresh legislation to clarify the use of state facilities when VIPs are involved.
As the potential police assessment unfolds, investigators will need to determine whether grounds exist for a full criminal inquiry — a process that could take months and tests the ability of UK authorities to balance public interest with procedural fairness.


























































































