'Andrew's actions have once again undermined efforts to protect the monarchy'

Prince Andrew's 'unusually close' relationship with an alleged Chinese spy raises questions about his judgement - he has was forced to step back from royal duties five years ago

There appears to be no limit to the embarrassment that Prince Andrew can cause to the Royal Family.

The revelation that he formed an “unusually close” relationship with an alleged Chinese spy raises further questions about his judgement. The Prince was forced to step back from royal duties five years ago over his ties to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

He was later stripped of his military titles and royal patronages after a multi-million pound settlement with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual assault. Andrew has always denied the claims, but never fully answered ­questions about his links to Epstein or how he funded the settlement.

So far, there is a similar lack of ­transparency about his links to this alleged spy. The Palace should explain why he struck up such a close relationship and whether he was warned about potential security risks. Yet again, his actions have undermined the efforts of King Charles and Prince William to protect the reputation of the monarchy.

1st class failure

Royal Mail used to be the envy of the world. But a service once lauded for its reliability and efficiency has become a shadow of its former self. The price of stamps rises and rises. It now costs £1.65 to send a letter first class as the privatised firm’s performance gets worse.

Royal Mail has missed delivery targets for five years in a row as new figures show only 74.7% of first class letters arrived on time. As a result, Royal Mail has been fined yet again by the regulator Ofcom.

If fewer people are sending letters, it is not just because of a move to electronic communication. It is also because the postal service is charging ever more for a worse service.

Cha-charmer

Chris McCausland is the favourite to lift the Glitterball in this weekend's Strictly final.

Even if he doesn’t win, he can dance away knowing he’s the people’s cha-cha-champion.