What exactly did Gordon Brown request?

He asked multiple UK police forces to assess claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor used taxpayer-funded flights and RAF bases for private meetings with Jeffrey Epstein. The request seeks clarity on approvals, purpose, and records. Police typically start with scoping work to decide whether a full criminal investigation is justified.

What does MoD policy allow at RAF bases?

The Ministry of Defence can permit civil or private aircraft to use RAF airfields on a paid, case-by-case basis, subject to capacity and security. Approvals should document purpose, timing, passengers, and costs. Fees are charged in GBP to recover costs, and decisions balance safety, operations, and public value.

Could this raise costs for private aviation providers?

Yes. If oversight tightens, operators may face more checks, detailed manifests, and stricter approval steps. That can add compliance time and some administrative cost. In return, clearer standards and uniform documentation can reduce ambiguity, support faster audits, and help established firms compete on transparent terms.

What should investors watch next?

Look for police scoping updates, any MoD notices on airfield access, and guidance from the Cabinet Office or National Audit Office. If changes are proposed, check consultation timelines, pilot schemes for travel logs, and transitional plans that affect procurement, framework contracts, and reporting requirements.

Law and Government

February 23: Gordon Brown Seeks RAF-Epstein Probe, Oversight Risks Rise

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 23, 2026February 23, 2026

Gordon Brown has asked multiple UK police forces to assess claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor used taxpayer-funded flights and RAF bases to meet Jeffrey Epstein. The Ministry of Defence says private use of RAF airfields can be approved on a paid, case-by-case basis. Andrew denies wrongdoing. For UK readers and investors, the issue is oversight risk. It could tighten government travel rules and military airfield access, with knock-on effects for private aviation services, procurement checks, and supplier compliance in Britain.