Former trade envoy Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is facing renewed scrutiny, with calls for an investigation into his conduct and allegations of sharing sensitive government information with business contacts, according to multiple reports. These developments come as the Scottish craft beer brand Brewdog considers a sale, the gender pay gap continues to be a concern, and the city of Manchester is seen as a potential model for economic growth.
Sir Vince Cable, former business secretary, stated that Andrew's time as trade envoy should be investigated for possible corruption, as reported by BBC Business. This follows the release of files by the US Department of Justice, which reportedly show the former prince forwarded UK government documents and commercial information to Jeffrey Epstein. Cable described Andrew's alleged behavior as "totally unacceptable."
Adding to the controversy, Andrew is also accused of sharing a Treasury briefing with a business contact, Jonathan Rowland, in 2010. Emails published in the Telegraph suggest that Andrew requested information from Treasury officials on banking problems in Iceland and subsequently shared the briefing with Rowland, whose father took over part of a failing Icelandic bank, according to BBC Business. This raises further questions about the misuse of his public role. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
In other business news, the Scottish craft beer giant Brewdog is considering a sale, having brought in consultants to oversee the process. The company cited a "challenging economic climate" as the reason for seeking new investors, according to BBC Business. Brewdog, founded in 2007, operates breweries and pubs globally, including about 60 in the UK.
Meanwhile, the gender pay gap remains a significant concern. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) warned that the gap will not close until 2056 if progress continues at the current rate. According to TUC analysis of official pay data, the disparity between average wages for men and women is 12.8%, or £2,548 per year. The gap is widest in the finance and insurance industry, at 27.2%, according to BBC Business.
Amidst these economic challenges, Manchester is being viewed as a potential model for UK growth. BBC Business reported that the city's regeneration strategies, supported by governments across the political spectrum, are showing positive results.
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