On Wednesday, British police said they had launched an investigation into allegations in media reports that honours were offered to a Saudi national in exchange for donations to one of Prince Charles’ charities.
In September, the Sunday Times reported that a Saudi businessman had received an award after donating thousands of pounds to projects strongly supported by Charles, with the help of the prince’s aides.
Michael Fawcett, Prince Charles’s long-serving right-hand man, stepped down as CEO of the royal charity The Prince’s Foundation in November.
“The assessment process was carried out by the Special Enquiry Team, which included contacting those believed to be in possession of relevant information…
Following the assessment, an investigation will be launched “The Metropolitan Police in London issued a statement.
“The Prince of Wales had no knowledge of the alleged offer of honours or British citizenship based on donation to his charities,” a spokesperson for Charles said.
Officers liaised with The Prince’s Foundation about the findings of an independent investigation into fundraising practices, and the foundation provided a number of relevant documents, according to police.
There have been no arrests or interviews conducted under caution, according to the statement.