King Charles Formally Removes Prince Andrew of HRH Style and Prince Title
Through a definitive move, the reigning monarch has officially stripped Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his HRH style and his princely title.
These alterations were made official by publishing royal documents under the official state seal, that have been recorded in the Gazette.
The entry stated: “His Majesty has been pleased by letters patent under the Great Seal dated 3 November 2025 to declare that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall cease to be entitled to possess the style, title or attribute of ‘HRH’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince’.”
Another record affirmed the removal of the dukedom from the roll of peerage, with immediate effect.
The notice stated: “His Majesty has been pleased by royal warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to direct his secretary of state to cause the Duke of York to be struck from the peerage roll.”
Background of the Royal Action
The move comes after increasing controversy over Andrew's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.
The author claimed that she was sexually abused by Andrew after being brought by Epstein, claims that Mountbatten Windsor has consistently strenuously denied.
Procedure of Title Removal
The king employed his royal prerogative—recognized authorities held by the sovereign—following discussions with Cabinet Office officials, rather than through legislative action.
Letters patent and warrants are tools of this authority, used to bestow or remove titles and honors.
Because the Royal Highness designation is granted by letters patent, it can be revoked through the same instrument.
Further Measures and Backing
After the initial announcement, the lord chancellor was directed to draft the required paperwork for the removal of titles.
The decision also includes Mountbatten Windsor relinquishing his tenancy on Royal Lodge, a thirty-room Crown Estate property where he has resided for twenty years.
Officials endorsed the king's move.
Retained Honor
In spite of the loss of titles, it was confirmed that Mountbatten Windsor will keep his Falklands service medal, granted for his role as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands War.
