King Charles Officially Removes Andrew of HRH Style and Princely Dignity
Through a definitive action, King Charles has formally stripped the former Duke of York of his HRH style and his title of prince.
These alterations were formalized by publishing letters patent under the official state seal, which were published in the Gazette.
The entry declared: “The king has been graciously inclined by royal instruments under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that the individual in question shall cease to be entitled to hold and enjoy the designation of ‘Royal Highness’ and the titular dignity of ‘Prince of the realm’.”
Another record confirmed the removal of the Duke of York from the peerage list, effective immediately.
The notice stated: “His Majesty has been pleased by royal warrant under his signature dated 30 October 2025 to direct his government minister to ensure the titleholder to be struck from the peerage roll.”
Background of the Royal Action
The move follows mounting scrutiny over Andrew's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, exacerbated by the posthumous publication of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.
Giuffre claimed that she was sexually abused by Andrew after being brought by Epstein, claims that Mountbatten Windsor has consistently denied.
Procedure of Removing Titles
The king utilized his monarchical powers—recognized authorities held by the sovereign—following consultation with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through parliamentary means.
Royal instruments and royal warrants are instruments of this authority, used to bestow or remove titles and honors.
Because the Royal Highness designation is granted by such documents, it can be revoked through the same process.
Further Actions and Support
After the palace statement, the senior legal official was directed to prepare the required paperwork for the removal of titles.
The decision also includes Mountbatten Windsor giving up his tenancy on Royal Lodge, a 30-room royal property where he has lived for twenty years.
The government fully supported the monarch's decision.
Exception
Despite the loss of titles, it was confirmed that Andrew will retain his South Atlantic medal, granted for his role as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.