King Charles Officially Removes Prince Andrew of HRH Style and Prince Title

In a definitive action, the reigning monarch has formally stripped Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his Royal Highness attribute and his princely title.

These alterations were formalized by publishing royal documents under the Great Seal of the Realm, which were published in the Gazette.

The entry declared: “His Majesty has been pleased by letters patent under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall cease to be entitled to hold and enjoy the style, title or attribute of ‘HRH’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince of the realm’.”

A separate record affirmed the removal of the dukedom from the roll of peerage, effective immediately.

The notice stated: “The king has been pleased to direct by warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to direct his secretary of state to cause the Duke of York to be removed from the roll of the peerage.”

Background of the Royal Action

The move comes after mounting controversy over Andrew's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, including the posthumous publication of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.

Giuffre claimed that she was sexually abused by the former prince after being brought by Jeffrey Epstein, allegations that Andrew has consistently strenuously denied.

Mechanism of Removing Titles

The king utilized his royal prerogative—accepted authorities held by the sovereign—following discussions with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through parliamentary means.

Royal instruments and royal warrants are tools of this authority, used to bestow or revoke titles and honors.

Because the HRH style is conferred by letters patent, it can be withdrawn through the same process.

Further Measures and Backing

Following the palace statement, the senior legal official was instructed to draft the required paperwork for the removal of titles.

This action also involves Mountbatten Windsor relinquishing his tenancy on Royal Lodge, a thirty-room royal property where he has resided for twenty years.

Officials fully supported the king's move.

Exception

In spite of the loss of titles, 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.