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In a definitive action, King Charles has officially stripped the former Duke of York of his Royal Highness attribute and his title of prince.

These alterations were formalized by issuing letters patent under the Great Seal of the Realm, that have been recorded in the Gazette.

The official notice declared: “The king has been graciously inclined by royal instruments under the Great Seal of the Realm 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 ‘HRH’ and the titular dignity of ‘Prince of the realm’.”

A separate entry confirmed the removal of the Duke of York 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 ensure the titleholder to be removed from the roll of the peerage.”

Background of the Decision

The move comes after mounting scrutiny over Andrew's connections to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.

The author alleged that she was sexually abused by Andrew after being trafficked by Epstein, claims that Mountbatten Windsor has consistently denied.

Mechanism of Removing Titles

Charles employed his monarchical powers—recognized rights held by the monarch—following discussions with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through legislative action.

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

Since the Royal Highness designation is granted by such documents, it can be revoked through the same instrument.

Further Measures and Support

After the palace statement, the lord chancellor was directed to prepare the required paperwork for the title removals.

The decision also involves Mountbatten Windsor relinquishing his lease on Royal Lodge, a 30-room royal property where he has lived for two decades.

Officials fully supported the king's move.

Exception

Despite the stripping of honors, it was announced that Mountbatten Windsor will keep his South Atlantic medal, granted for his service as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.