Britain's Duke of York is to step down from his role as the United Kingdom’s roving business ambassador, according to reports.
Speculation is mounting Andrew will give up the post following the intense scrutiny he faced earlier this year over his relationships with a series of controversial figures, including a convicted paedophile.
The duke has been dogged by accusations of a lack of judgment about his links with US billionaire Jeffrey Epstein, who was sentenced to 18 months in prison in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution.
Further doubts were raised about the duke's position in the wake of media coverage about him entertaining the son-in-law of ousted Tunisian president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali at Buckingham Palace.
Andrew also held a meeting with Libya’s embattled leader Col Gadafy while on a private visit to Tunisia in 2008.
But as the criticism mounted in March, he received the backing of Prime Minister David Cameron and Chancellor George Osborne.
The duke has been the UK special representative for international trade and investment since 2001, travelling around the world and at home promoting Britain’s business interests.
But there have also been long-running complaints about the lavish nature of his official foreign trips.
The duke is said to have informed the Queen Elizabeth and consulted Downing Street about his intentions, according to the Daily Mail. Sky News has quoted sources as confirming the royal will step down as Britain's trade envoy.
According to reports, he will retain some sort of trade role based in the United Kingdom that could see him promoting apprenticeships and possibly entrepreneurs.
Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the reports.
PA