By Fatma Younis
Prince Andrew, formally known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has been served with a witness summons compelling him to give evidence in a fraud trial at the High Court in London on or around 15 December, the BBC understands.
Background of the Case
The trial centers on allegations by Nebahat Isbilen, an elderly Turkish woman, who says her former financial adviser Selman Turk misled her and used her wealth for his own advantage. Turk strongly denies dishonesty. Andrew is not accused of wrongdoing, but he could face questions about his financial arrangements because he received some of the disputed payments, including a transfer of £750,000.
Unprecedented Royal Appearance
This will be the first public questioning of the former Duke of York since his BBC Newsnight interview in 2019. It is also believed to be the first time since the 19th century that a member of the royal family has been issued such a witness summons. A judge granted permission for Andrew to be called as a witness last month, and the summons was issued this week. The case is set to begin in mid-November, with Andrew expected to appear in person or via video around 15 December.
Financial Transactions Under Scrutiny
According to court documents, Isbilen claims she was tricked into paying £750,000 to Andrew, believing it was for assistance with a passport. Turk denies this, stating the payment was a gift made on Isbilen’s initiative to create goodwill with the then duke. The transfer occurred the day after Andrew recorded his Newsnight interview, shortly before he stepped down from royal duties. In 2021, Isbilen’s lawyers contacted Prince Andrew and the money was repaid, but the court will still examine Turk’s conduct.
Another significant sum of £768,000 was paid from Isbilen’s account in January 2020. Turk has claimed it was a loan to Andrew for the purchase of a chalet in Switzerland, a suggestion contested by Isbilen and challenged in previous hearings.
Connections and Legal Rationale
Turk met Andrew in autumn 2019 through the Pitch@Palace project, a pitching event run by the former duke. This led to social gatherings involving Turk, his family, Isbilen, and the then Duke and Duchess of York. Justice Adam Johnson ruled that, given the seriousness of the allegations, Turk should have access to evidence he considers relevant, leading to the summons. Turk’s representatives, Janes Solicitors, said he denies the claims and looks forward to being vindicated. Andrew has been approached for a response.
