Topline
British Police have launched an investigation into The Prince’s Foundation, one of Prince Charles’ charities, over allegations made in a media report that a Saudi businessman was promised royal honors and British citizenship in exchange for donations, police said in a statement Wednesday.
Key Facts
The Metropolitan Police said the investigation began after the Special Enquiry Team “conducted the assessment process,” including contacting those believed to have relevant information.
Police said the investigation is tied to a media report, referring to a September article by the Sunday Times that Michael Fawcett, Prince Charles’ close confidant and then-chief executive of the foundation, allegedly promised to help Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz secure royal honors and even British citizenship for donating “thousands of pounds.”
Following the report, Fawcett resigned from his role in November.
Police said there have been no arrests made.
Charles’ spokesperson told Reuters that Charles had “no knowledge of the alleged offer of honors or British citizenship on the basis of donation to his charities."
Charles is the president of the foundation, but Bloomberg reports he is not involved in its day-to-day operations.
Tangent
Charles gave the Saudi national royal honors in a private ceremony at Buckingham Palace in November 2016, the Sunday Times reported. The event was not recorded on an official list that keeps track of royal activities.
Key Background
The investigation into Charles’ foundation is as another setback for the royal family dealing with allegations that Prince Andrew sexually assaulted an American teenager. Prince Andrew on Tuesday settled the sexual assault lawsuit from Virginia Giuffre to avoid a trial. Prince Andrew’s lawsuit has overshadowed celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II's 70 years on the throne.
Further Reading
UK police to probe cash-for-honours allegations at Prince Charles's charity (Reuters)
Prince Andrew Settles Sexual Assault Lawsuit With Epstein Accuser Virginia Giuffre (Forbes)
