King Charles Formally Removes Andrew of HRH Style and Prince Title
Through a decisive action, King Charles has officially removed Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his HRH style and his title of prince.
These alterations were formalized by publishing royal documents under the Great Seal of the Realm, that have been recorded in the UK's official public record.
The official notice declared: “His Majesty has been graciously inclined by letters patent under the Great Seal dated 3 November 2025 to declare that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall no longer be entitled to hold and enjoy the designation of ‘HRH’ and the titular dignity of ‘Prince’.”
A separate record confirmed the removal of the Duke of York from the roll of peerage, with immediate effect.
The notice stated: “His Majesty has been pleased by warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to direct his government minister to cause the titleholder to be removed from the peerage roll.”
Context of the Decision
The decision follows mounting controversy over the former prince's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, exacerbated by the release of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.
Giuffre alleged that she was assaulted by the former prince after being brought by Epstein, claims that Mountbatten Windsor has consistently denied.
Procedure of Removing Titles
The king employed his royal prerogative—recognized authorities held by the sovereign—after discussions with Cabinet Office officials, rather than through parliamentary means.
Royal instruments and royal warrants are tools of this prerogative, used to grant or revoke titles and honors.
Because the Royal Highness designation is granted by such documents, it can be revoked through the same process.
Additional Measures and Support
After the initial announcement, the lord chancellor was directed to draft the required paperwork for the title removals.
This action also involves Mountbatten Windsor giving up his lease on Royal Lodge, a thirty-room royal property where he has lived for two decades.
The government fully supported the monarch's decision.
Retained Honor
In spite of the stripping of honors, it was announced that Andrew will keep his Falklands service medal, granted for his role as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.
