Former diplomat: Prince Andrew ‘spy’ contact shows China’s strategy of interference ‘in action’

An alleged Chinese spy described as a “close confidant” of Prince Andrew has lost an appeal against a decision to ban him from the UK on national security grounds.

Judges said the pressures on Andrew could make him vulnerable to misuse of the man’s influence. Charles Parton spent 22 years of his UK diplomatic career working in or on China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The Duke of York’s office has released a statement saying he “ceased all contact” with the businessman accused of being a spy following advice from the government.

It also says he met the man through official channels and “nothing of a sensitive nature was ever discussed”.