The Monarch Formally Strips Andrew of HRH Style and Princely Dignity
In a definitive action, the reigning monarch has formally stripped the former Duke of York of his Royal Highness attribute and his title of prince.
The changes were made official by publishing letters patent under the official state seal, that have been recorded in the UK's official public record.
The entry declared: “His Majesty has been graciously inclined by royal instruments under the Great Seal dated 3 November 2025 to declare that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall cease to be entitled to hold and enjoy the designation of ‘HRH’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince of the realm’.”
A separate entry confirmed the removal of the Duke of York from the peerage list, effective immediately.
It read: “The king has been pleased by royal warrant under his signature dated 30 October 2025 to instruct his government minister to cause the titleholder to be removed from the peerage roll.”
Background of the Decision
This decision comes after increasing controversy over the former prince's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir.
Giuffre claimed that she was assaulted by the former prince after being brought by Jeffrey Epstein, allegations that Mountbatten Windsor has always strenuously denied.
Procedure of Removing Titles
Charles employed his royal prerogative—accepted rights held by the sovereign—following consultation with government advisers, rather than through parliamentary means.
Letters patent and royal warrants are tools of this authority, used to grant or remove honors and styles.
Because the HRH style is granted by letters patent, it can be revoked through the same instrument.
Additional Actions and Support
After the palace statement, the senior legal official was instructed to prepare the required paperwork for the removal of titles.
The decision also involves Andrew relinquishing his lease on Royal Lodge, a 30-room royal property where he has resided for two decades.
The government fully supported the monarch's decision.
Retained Honor
In spite of the stripping of honors, it was confirmed that Mountbatten Windsor will keep his Falklands service medal, granted for his service as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands War.