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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 princely title.

These alterations were formalized by publishing royal documents under the official state seal, that have been published in the Gazette.

The official notice declared: “The king has been graciously inclined by letters patent under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall cease to be entitled to possess the style, title or attribute of ‘Royal Highness’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince of the realm’.”

A separate entry affirmed the removal of the dukedom from the peerage list, with immediate effect.

The notice stated: “The king has been pleased to direct by royal warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to direct his government minister to ensure the titleholder to be struck from the roll of the peerage.”

Background of the Royal Action

This move comes after increasing scrutiny over Andrew's links to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, exacerbated by the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir.

The author alleged that she was assaulted by Andrew after being trafficked by Jeffrey Epstein, allegations that Andrew has consistently strenuously denied.

Procedure of Title Removal

Charles utilized his royal prerogative—accepted authorities held by the sovereign—after consultation with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through parliamentary means.

Letters patent and warrants are tools of this authority, used to grant or remove titles and honors.

Because the Royal Highness designation is conferred by such documents, it can be withdrawn through the same instrument.

Additional Actions and Backing

Following the initial announcement, the lord chancellor was instructed to draft the required paperwork for the title removals.

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

Officials fully supported the king's move.

Retained Honor

In spite of the loss of titles, it was announced that Andrew will keep his Falklands service medal, awarded for his service as a Sea King helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.