The US House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform has formally requested an interview with Prince Andrew regarding his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

In its letter, the committee stated it has uncovered “financial records containing notations such as ‘massage for Andrew’ that raise serious questions” as part of its ongoing investigation into Epstein’s sex trafficking network.

The committee wrote to Prince Andrew: “We are seeking to uncover the identities of Mr Epstein’s co-conspirators and enablers, and to understand the full extent of his criminal operations.

“Well-documented allegations against you, along with your long-standing friendship with Mr Epstein, indicate that you may possess knowledge of his activities relevant to our investigation.

“In the interest of justice for the victims of Jeffrey Epstein, we request that you cooperate with the committee’s investigation by sitting for a transcribed interview.”

Prince Andrew has consistently and emphatically denied allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, who passed away in April, that he sexually assaulted her after being introduced through Epstein.

The congressional letter was sent to Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, the residence Prince Andrew recently agreed to vacate following his removal from royal duties and titles.

The committee’s letter highlights Prince Andrew’s “close relationship” with Epstein and references a 2011 email exchange that recently came to light, in which the prince wrote to Epstein: “we are in this together.”