King Charles III has formally stripped Prince Andrew of his royal titles and honors, reducing his status to that of a private individual. The decision, announced from Buckingham Palace, marks a significant shift in the royal family’s approach to public accountability and the protection of victims of abuse. Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, will no longer hold the titles of Duke of York, Earl of Inverness, or Lord of the Isle of Wight.
Buckingham Palace’s statement emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the censure was deemed necessary ‘notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him.’ The palace has also taken the step of formally serving notice to Prince Andrew to surrender his lease on Royal Lodge, a private residence that has provided him with legal protection. This move signals the end of his tenure at the prestigious property and the transition to alternative private accommodation.
The decision comes in the wake of the unauthorized biography ‘Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York’ by British author Andrew Lownie, which was published in August and sparked further scrutiny. Prince Andrew had previously announced on October 17 that he was relinquishing his Duke of York title, indicating a possible prelude to the formal stripping of his honors. Additionally, the palace’s statement underscores the ongoing concerns surrounding Prince Andrew’s past associations, particularly his ties to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, who was recently the subject of Charles’s inquiries during a visit to a cathedral.
The palace reiterated its commitment to supporting victims and survivors of abuse, stating, ‘Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.’ The statement reflects the royal family’s broader efforts to address public concerns and maintain public trust in the face of ongoing scrutiny and allegations.