Chinese Businessman Linked to Prince Andrew Loses UK Appeal on Security Grounds

A Chinese businessman identified as H6, described as a “close confidant” of Prince Andrew, has lost his appeal against a UK ban imposed on national security grounds. The former Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, barred H6 from entering the UK in March 2023, citing concerns over his alleged connections to the Chinese Communist Party’s United Front Work Department (UFWD), an organization accused of influence operations. Judges upheld the decision, noting H6’s close ties with the Duke of York and the potential risk of political interference.

Court documents revealed H6 had developed a significant relationship with Prince Andrew, attending his birthday party in 2020 and allegedly receiving authorization to act on his behalf with Chinese investors. MI5 flagged H6’s activities, citing concerns about covert operations and influence campaigns by the UFWD. Evidence included a letter where an adviser to the duke praised H6’s trusted position and mentioned facilitating discreet meetings at Windsor, raising further security alarms.

Prince Andrew, who stepped back from royal duties in 2019 amid scandals, has faced scrutiny over his finances and associations. Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the case, emphasizing the duke’s status as a non-working royal. The ruling noted the timing of H6’s influence during a period of vulnerability for the prince, underlining the justification for his exclusion from the UK.

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