King Charles Officially Strips Andrew of HRH Style and Prince Title
Through a definitive move, King Charles has formally stripped the former Duke of York of his HRH style and his princely title.
These alterations were formalized by issuing royal documents under the Great Seal of the Realm, that have been recorded in the Gazette.
The entry declared: “The king has been graciously inclined by letters patent 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 style, title or attribute of ‘Royal Highness’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince of the realm’.”
Another entry affirmed the removal of the dukedom from the peerage list, effective immediately.
The notice stated: “The king has been pleased by royal warrant under his signature dated 30 October 2025 to direct his government minister to cause the titleholder to be struck from the peerage roll.”
Context of the Royal Action
The move comes after mounting controversy over Andrew's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir.
Giuffre claimed that she was sexually abused by Andrew after being brought by Jeffrey Epstein, allegations that Andrew has consistently strenuously denied.
Mechanism of Title Removal
Charles utilized his royal prerogative—accepted rights held by the monarch—following discussions with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through legislative action.
Royal instruments and warrants are tools of this prerogative, used to bestow or revoke titles and honors.
Because the Royal Highness designation is conferred by such documents, it can be withdrawn through the same process.
Additional Measures and Support
Following the palace statement, the lord chancellor was instructed to prepare the necessary documents for the removal of titles.
This action also includes Mountbatten Windsor giving up his lease on Royal Lodge, a thirty-room Crown Estate property where he has resided for two decades.
The government endorsed the king's move.
Retained Honor
Despite the stripping of honors, it was confirmed that Andrew will retain his South Atlantic medal, granted for his role as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands War.
