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Through a definitive action, King Charles has officially removed Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his Royal Highness attribute and his princely title.

The changes were made official by publishing royal documents under the official state seal, which were published in the Gazette.

The official notice stated: “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 honorific status of ‘Prince’.”

A separate record affirmed the removal of the Duke of York from the peerage list, with immediate effect.

It read: “His Majesty has been pleased to direct by warrant under his signature dated 30 October 2025 to direct his secretary of state to ensure the Duke of York to be removed from the roll of the peerage.”

Context of the Decision

This decision follows increasing controversy over Andrew's links to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.

Giuffre claimed that she was assaulted by the former prince after being trafficked by Epstein, allegations that Mountbatten Windsor has always strenuously denied.

Mechanism of Title Removal

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

Royal instruments and warrants are instruments of this authority, used to grant or revoke honors and styles.

Because the HRH style is conferred by such documents, it can be withdrawn through the same process.

Additional Actions and Backing

After the initial announcement, the senior legal official was instructed to prepare the required paperwork for the removal of titles.

The decision also involves Mountbatten Windsor giving up his lease on Royal Lodge, a 30-room Crown Estate property where he has resided for twenty years.

Officials fully supported the monarch's decision.

Exception

Despite the loss of titles, it was confirmed that Andrew will retain his South Atlantic medal, granted for his role as a Sea King helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands War.