Your Harrogate Radio

10:00pm - 6:30am

Email the studio

Taylor Swift

Opalite

Listen Live

Harrogate MP backs decision to release 'Andrew files'

Wednesday, 25 February 2026 07:12

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

Local MP Tom Gordon has welcomed a major Liberal Democrat victory as the Government commits to releasing 'Andrew Files'.

Parliament unanimously backed the Liberal Democrat humble address calling for the release of government files relating to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as a UK trade envoy in 2001.

MPs across the House agreed that the public deserves to see the full facts.

Responding to the decision, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor had “shamed our country”.

He made it clear that long-standing parliamentary conventions shielding the Royal Family from scrutiny must no longer stand in the way of accountability.

During the debate, Trade Minister Chris Bryant confirmed that the Government will release the files “as soon as is practicable and possible within the law.”

He indicated that any documents potentially relating to the offence of misconduct in public office may be withheld on prosecutorial advice, following Andrew’s address.

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, said:

"It's welcome news that the Government have listened to the Liberal Democrats and will release information and shine a light on Andrew's dodgy dealings.

“This is the latest blow, in this shameful chapter. We'll continue to call for transparency, and restore trust in our political institutions."

More from Local News

Schemes in Harrogate and Ripon receive grants from Mayor's £2.4million High Street Fund

Four schemes in Harrogate and Ripon have secured funding from the final round of Mayor David Skaith's £2.4 million Vibrant and Sustainable High Street Fund.
Council facing fresh criticism of planning decisions over services near Boroughbridge

North Yorkshire Council is facing a fresh allegation of unlawful decision-making over plans for a motorway service area (MSA) near Boroughbridge.
Ripon Grammar School receives 'glowing' report from inspectors

Ripon Grammar School has passed an inspection by a prestigious national schools' guide with flying colours.
Record breaking year for families receiving first choice primary schools

This year has seen the highest number of first-choice offers on record.
Four-man assault on Harrogate road leaves victim with head injury

Police are appealing for information about an assault that occurred on Fairfax Avenue in Harrogate.
Harrogate care home hits jackpot with Casino Royale fundraiser

A Harrogate care provider's unique casino fundraising event has raised £2,400 for the charity.
Coppice Valley Primary School celebrates praise from Ofsted

Coppice Valley Primary School in Harrogate has been praised by Ofsted inspectors for its highly inclusive culture and high-quality provision for pupils.
Shortlist revealed for Harrogate Hospitality and Tourism Awards

The final shortlist across twelve categories has been revealed ahead of the Harrogate Hospitality & Tourism Awards.
New registration scheme set to launch at recycling centres

A new registration scheme designed to improve access to North Yorkshire’s household waste recycling centres.
New travelling circus to visit Valley Gardens this summer

A long-forgotten travelling circus is set to return to Yorkshire this summer - and it's stopping off at Harrogate's Valley Gardens.
Classical music with a twist: Madhouse Orchestra heads to Harrogate

An international collective of professional musicians will take to the stage in Harrogate next week.
New science-led prevention clinic launches in Harrogate

A new science-led healthcare clinic has launched in Harrogate, focusing on prevention through earlier diagnosis and proactive health management.
Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival returns for 'biggest year ever'

The Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival returns to Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate this July for its largest programme to date.
Follifoot named among UK's poshest villages

A village near Harrogate has been recognised as one of the 'poshest' places to live in the country, according to new research.
Harrogate BID celebrates another successful dog show

Harrogate BID has hailed another successful Dog Show, as crowds gathered to enjoy a day full of canine fun at the weekend.
Specialist school for autistic pupils to open in Harrogate

A new specialist school for autistic young people has been approved to open in Harrogate.
Details revealed for return of Masham Tractor Run

Plans are underway for the return of the popular annual Masham Tractor Run.
Harrogate man attempts to smash second world record at London Marathon

A Harrogate man is set for another whacky world marathon attempt when he takes on the London Marathon next weekend.
Vintage tractor run raises more than £5,000 for Harrogate cancer centre

The fifth Brian Chester tractor road run has raised a further £635 for Sir Robert Ogden MacMillan Centre at Harrogate Hospital.
Harrogate mum runs half marathon to raise £2,400 for rare skin condition charity

A Harrogate mum has raised more than £2,400 for a charity supporting people with a rare skin condition after taking part in the London Landmarks Half Marathon.