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Prince Andrew's 'Close Confidant' Banned from UK Over Alleged Links to China's United Front Department

Dec 13, 2024, 11:22 AM

A Chinese businessman, known as "H6" and described as a "close confidant" of Prince Andrew, has been banned from entering the United Kingdom on national security grounds due to allegations of espionage. The individual, whose name has not been disclosed, was reportedly involved with the Duke of York in various capacities, including being invited to his birthday party and acting as a business adviser. The ban, upheld by a special immigration appeals court, was based on concerns over his links to China's United Front Department. Former security minister Tom Tugendhat referred to the situation as "extremely embarrassing," while Tobias Ellwood expressed he is "hugely concerned" about the reports. The judge noted the businessman's unusual level of trust from the royal. The Chinese embassy responded to the media reports, though specific details were not provided.