đ Share this article The Monarch Formally Removes Andrew of Royal Highness Title and Prince Title Through a decisive move, the reigning monarch has officially 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 published in the UK's official public record. The official notice declared: âThe king has been pleased by royal instruments 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 âRoyal Highnessâ and the titular dignity of âPrince of the realmâ.â A separate entry affirmed the removal of the Duke of York from the peerage list, effective immediately. The notice stated: âThe king has been pleased by royal warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to instruct his secretary of state to cause the titleholder to be struck from the peerage roll.â Context of the Royal Action The move follows increasing controversy over Andrew's links to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir. The author claimed that she was sexually abused by the former prince after being trafficked by Jeffrey Epstein, claims that Andrew has always strenuously denied. Mechanism of Removing Titles Charles employed his monarchical powersârecognized rights held by the sovereignâfollowing discussions with government advisers, instead of through parliamentary means. Letters patent and royal warrants are instruments of this prerogative, used to bestow or remove titles and honors. Since the Royal Highness designation is conferred by such documents, it can be revoked through the same instrument. Additional Actions and Support After the initial announcement, the lord chancellor was directed to draft the necessary documents for the removal of titles. The decision also involves Andrew giving up his lease on Royal Lodge, a thirty-room royal property where he has resided for twenty years. Officials fully supported the monarch's move. Retained Honor Despite the stripping of honors, it was announced that Mountbatten Windsor will retain his South Atlantic medal, awarded for his role as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.