PRINCE ANDREW'S THAI VOW
DAILY STAR SUNDAY
30th January 2011
By Clive Goodman
PLAYBOY Prince Andrew has promised to challenge tough immigration rules so he can help more Thai Âmasseuses set up shop in Britain.
Royal trade envoy Andrew offered the helping hand when he met Thailand’s prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, 46, at the world economic Âforum in Davos, Switzerland, on Friday.
An aide said: “The prime minister complained to the Duke of York that Britain’s immigration laws are so strict Thailand is prevented from sending skilled workers from the spa and food industries.â€
Under Home Office plans migrant numbers from non-EU countries are going to be strictly capped to keep numbers down.
Thailand’s official news agency yesterday said: “The Duke explained that the tough regulation was issued by the Interior Ministry in a bid to prevent the illegal entry of foreign workers.
“Nonetheless, he will liaise with the ministry to respond to the matter.â€
Andrew, 50, learned the power of a therapeutic massage on a trip to Thailand’s holiday island Phuket.
He received a relaxing back rub on a beach during a break from the luxury yacht he was seen sharing with a host of topless beauties.
Yesterday Andrew’s offer of help raised eyebrows with immigration chiefs.
One advised: “It’s official immigration policy, which is straying a bit past the Duke’s trade brief. This isn’t a matter for him to get involved in.â€
Those close to the Duke defended his role, saying: “Because he is a member of the Royal Family people ask him for all sorts of assistance.
“The skill comes in managing the expectations of our trading partners without insulting them.â€
And a Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “The Duke’s role is a UK trade representative and as a Âresult he has meetings with all sorts of people across the world and all sorts of conversations.â€
Andrew was yesterday still on the two-day mission to Davos as part of his ambassador’s role with the UK Trade and Investment quango.
Later the Duke met Karim Massimov, 45, the prime minister of oil-rich Kazakhstan. The Prince is a regular visitor there and is close to the state’s elite.
His former marital home Sunninghill Park, Berks, was bought by Timur Kulibayev, 44, billionaire son-in-law of the president Nursultan Nazarbayev, 70.
Great News ~~~ what about a Quid Pro Quo .....................Easing of Visa restrictions for UK expats would get my vote!!!
TBWG