King Charles Formally Strips Andrew of Royal Highness Title and Prince Title

In a definitive move, the reigning monarch has formally stripped the former Duke of York of his Royal Highness attribute and his princely title.

The changes were made official by publishing royal documents under the official state seal, which were recorded in the Gazette.

The official notice declared: “The king has been pleased by letters patent under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that the individual in question shall cease to be entitled to possess the designation of ‘HRH’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince’.”

A separate record confirmed the removal of the dukedom from the roll of peerage, with immediate effect.

The notice stated: “The king has been pleased by royal warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to direct his government minister to cause the titleholder to be removed from the peerage roll.”

Background of the Decision

This move follows increasing scrutiny over Andrew's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, including the posthumous publication of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.

Giuffre alleged that she was assaulted by the former prince after being trafficked by Epstein, allegations that Andrew has consistently strenuously denied.

Procedure of Title Removal

The king utilized his monarchical powers—accepted authorities held by the sovereign—after consultation with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through parliamentary means.

Royal instruments and royal warrants are instruments of this prerogative, used to grant or remove titles and honors.

Because the HRH style is conferred by such documents, it can be withdrawn through the same instrument.

Further Measures and Support

After the initial announcement, the lord chancellor was instructed to draft the required paperwork for the title removals.

The decision also involves Andrew relinquishing his lease on Royal Lodge, a 30-room royal property where he has lived for two decades.

The government fully supported the monarch's decision.

Retained Honor

In spite of the stripping of honors, it was announced that Mountbatten Windsor will keep his South Atlantic medal, awarded for his service as a Sea King helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.