British lawmakers have approved the release of confidential documents related to Prince Andrew's tenure as trade envoy, following his arrest on charges of sharing government reports with Jeffrey Epstein. The motion passed Tuesday after a scathing parliamentary debate where Trade Minister Chris Bryant described the former royal as engaged in a constant "self-enriching hustle" and called for greater accountability from the monarchy.

The scandal has intensified with the U.S. Justice Department's release of millions of pages of Epstein documents, exposing how the financier used his web of wealthy and powerful friends to gain influence. King Charles III's brother was arrested Thursday at his home on the royal estate and released pending further investigation. The case has sparked calls for reform of parliamentary rules that historically barred criticism of the royal family.

Opposition leader Ed Davey introduced the motion, questioning why Andrew was appointed trade envoy in 2001 amid reports that Peter Mandelson lobbied for his appointment. Both Andrew and Mandelson have denied wrongdoing. The crisis has drawn comparisons to the 1936 abdication and raised fundamental questions about the monarchy's role, governance, and accountability. Buckingham Palace has attempted to distance the royal family from the scandal by removing Andrew's titles and forcing him to vacate his 30-room estate, but pressure for reform continues to mount.