At least three police forces have teamed up as they investigate Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. In a major development to the probe into the former prince's ties to the late financier, Thames Valley, Surrey and the Metropolitan Police have announced they are working together in their enquiries. 

The newly formed unit will ensure there is a consistent approach applied during the investigations. 

Last week it was announced that Thames Valley Police would investigate claims the disgraced former Duke of York passed sensitive information to Epstein when he was UK trade envoy. They are also looking into an alleged sex trafficking complaint. 

Surrey Police is also understood to be looking at separate allegations made against Mr Mountbatten-Windsor.

Thames Valley Police on Wednesday said they have held discussions with specialists from the Crown Prosecution Service about the allegations that Andrew shared confidential reports.

The force said: "While we cannot provide timescales over when a decision as to whether a criminal investigation will be opened, we can assure you that Thames Valley Police is making progress as quickly as possible."

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said they were leading the assessment of allegations relating to misconduct in public office, which specifically related to documents within the United States Department of Justice's Epstein files.

The King has made clear his "profound concern" over the allegations of misconduct against Andrew, with Buckingham Palace saying it will "stand ready to support" the police if approached.