King Charles Formally Strips Andrew of Royal Highness Title and Princely Dignity
Through a decisive move, King Charles 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, which were published in the UK's official public record.
The official notice declared: “The king has been pleased by royal instruments under the Great Seal dated 3 November 2025 to declare that the individual in question shall cease to be entitled to hold and enjoy the designation of ‘Royal Highness’ and the titular dignity of ‘Prince’.”
Another entry affirmed the stripping 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 secretary of state to ensure the titleholder to be struck from the roll of the peerage.”
Background of the Royal Action
This decision follows increasing scrutiny over Andrew's links to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, exacerbated by the posthumous publication of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.
Giuffre claimed that she was assaulted by Andrew after being brought by Epstein, allegations that Andrew has consistently denied.
Procedure of Title Removal
Charles employed his monarchical powers—recognized authorities held by the sovereign—following discussions with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through parliamentary means.
Letters patent and warrants are tools of this prerogative, used to bestow or remove titles and honors.
Since the HRH style is conferred by such documents, it can be revoked through the same instrument.
Further Actions and Support
Following the palace statement, the lord chancellor was instructed to draft the necessary documents for the removal of titles.
This action also includes Mountbatten Windsor giving up his tenancy on his Windsor residence, a thirty-room royal property where he has resided for two decades.
Officials endorsed the king's move.
Exception
In spite of the loss of titles, it was confirmed that Andrew will keep his Falklands service medal, awarded for his role as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands War.
