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published photo, Getty Images
Fawcett’s working relationship with Prince Charles dates back decades
Michael Fawcett, former aide to Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, has temporarily resigned as chief executive of the Prince Charitable Foundation amid allegations he used his influence to help Saudi businessman Mahfouz Merhi Mubarak bin Mahfouz to receive the Order of the British Empire.
Bin Mahfouz received the medal in 2016.
The association said it was investigating.
The foundation acts as an umbrella for a number of charities affiliated with Prince Charles.
The allegations regarding Fawcett were published by The Sunday Times and The Mail on Sunday.
The Sunday Times said Mahfouz, who denies committing wrongdoing, has donated large sums of money to restoration projects linked to Prince Charles.
According to some press reports, Fossett coordinated the efforts which culminated in the presentation of the medal to Mahfouz.
Douglas Connell, chairman of the Prince Charitable Foundation, said Fawcett offered on Saturday to temporarily step down as chief executive while investigations into the case were completed and the foundation accepted the offer. He added that Fossett fully supported the investigation and assured that he would provide all the help he could.
A foundation spokesperson said, “The foundation takes the allegations seriously and is investigating them.”
Fawcett was a close confidant of Prince Charles and was his runner-up until 2003.
BBC Royal Affairs correspondent Johnny Dimond said palace sources confirmed Prince Charles’ office was staying away from the institution’s business, but Fawcett was close to the prince and these allegations constitute a embarrassment for the latter.
Fawcett began her royal service in 1981 as an employee of the Queen, before becoming a finalist to Prince Charles.
published photo, Getty Images
Fawcett (right) resigned pending investigation
He was acquitted in 2003 of charges of illegal financial conduct relating to the sale of royal gifts.
He resigned after an internal report criticized his handling of minors, but continued to be Prince Charles’ assistant and director of events.
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