The Monarch Officially Removes Prince Andrew of HRH Style and Princely Dignity
Through a decisive move, King Charles has officially stripped the former Duke of York of his HRH style and his title of prince.
These alterations were formalized by publishing royal documents under the Great Seal of the Realm, that have been recorded in the Gazette.
The official notice declared: “His Majesty has been graciously inclined by letters patent under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that the individual in question shall no longer be entitled to hold and enjoy the style, title or attribute of ‘Royal Highness’ and the titular dignity of ‘Prince’.”
Another entry affirmed the removal of the Duke of York from the peerage list, effective immediately.
It read: “His Majesty has been pleased by warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to direct his secretary of state to ensure the titleholder to be struck from the roll of the peerage.”
Background of the Royal Action
The move follows mounting controversy over Andrew's connections to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.
Giuffre claimed that she was assaulted by the former prince after being trafficked by Jeffrey Epstein, claims that Mountbatten Windsor has consistently strenuously denied.
Mechanism of Title Removal
Charles employed his royal prerogative—accepted rights held by the monarch—after consultation with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through parliamentary means.
Royal instruments and royal warrants are instruments of this authority, used to bestow or revoke titles and honors.
Because the HRH style is conferred by such documents, it can be revoked through the same process.
Additional Actions and Backing
After the palace statement, the lord chancellor was instructed to prepare the necessary documents for the title removals.
The decision also involves Mountbatten Windsor relinquishing his lease on his Windsor residence, a 30-room Crown Estate property where he has lived for two decades.
The government fully supported the monarch's decision.
Exception
Despite the loss of titles, it was confirmed that Mountbatten Windsor will keep his South Atlantic medal, awarded for his service as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands War.
