Prince Andrew says he ‘ceased all contact’ with alleged Chinese spy

The Duke of York’s office has said he “ceased all contact” with the businessman accused of being a Chinese spy after receiving advice from the government.

In a statement to PA news agency, his office said Prince Andrew had met the man “through official channels” and there was “nothing of a sensitive nature ever discussed”.

The alleged spy has been banned from the UK following a judgement by the UK’s semi-secret national security court.

The man, known only as H6 was described as a “close confidant” to Prince Andrew who had formed an “unusual degree of trust” with the duke.

He had brought an appeal against his initial ban but the decision was upheld by the court.

Judges were told the businessman was attempting to leverage Prince Andrew’s influence.

The duke’s office said he was “unable to comment further on matters relating to national security”.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment, saying they do not act for the prince, who is not a working royal.