King Charles Officially Removes Prince Andrew of HRH Style and Princely Dignity
In a definitive action, the reigning monarch has formally removed Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his Royal Highness attribute and his title of prince.
These alterations were made official by issuing royal documents under the official state seal, which were published in the UK's official public record.
The entry declared: “His Majesty has been graciously inclined by letters patent under the Great Seal dated 3 November 2025 to declare that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall no longer be entitled to hold and enjoy the designation of ‘Royal Highness’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince of the realm’.”
A separate entry confirmed the removal of the Duke of York from the roll of peerage, effective immediately.
It read: “His Majesty has been pleased to direct by warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to instruct his government minister to ensure the Duke of York to be removed from the peerage roll.”
Background of the Royal Action
The move comes after mounting scrutiny over the former prince's links to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including the posthumous publication of Virginia Giuffre's memoir.
The author alleged that she was assaulted by Andrew after being brought by Epstein, allegations that Mountbatten Windsor has consistently denied.
Procedure of Removing Titles
The king utilized his royal prerogative—recognized rights held by the sovereign—following discussions with government advisers, instead of through parliamentary means.
Letters patent and royal warrants are tools of this prerogative, used to bestow or revoke honors and styles.
Since the HRH style is conferred by such documents, it can be revoked through the same process.
Additional Actions and Backing
Following the palace statement, the senior legal official was instructed to draft the necessary documents for the title removals.
This action also includes Mountbatten Windsor relinquishing his lease on Royal Lodge, a 30-room Crown Estate property where he has lived for twenty years.
Officials endorsed the monarch's decision.
Exception
In spite of the stripping of honors, it was confirmed that Mountbatten Windsor will keep his South Atlantic medal, awarded for his service as a Sea King helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.
