King Charles III Officially Removes Prince Title from Andrew

King Charles III has officially stripped his brother, Andrew, of his royal titles, a decision now recorded in The Gazette, the UK’s official journal of state. The announcement, made public on March 15, 2024, confirms that Andrew is no longer recognized as a prince or as the Duke of York. While the decision was initially disclosed last Thursday, the legal ramifications are now documented, marking a significant moment in the monarchy’s ongoing scrutiny of Andrew’s associations.

The formal record states that the dukedom was revoked by Royal Warrant, and Andrew’s title as prince was terminated through a legal document known as Letters Patent. The entry indicates that, under Letters Patent dated 3 November 2025, “Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall no longer be entitled to hold and enjoy the style, title or attribute of ‘Royal Highness’ and the titular dignity of ‘Prince’.” Letters Patent, which are issued under the Great Seal of the Realm, signify the monarch’s direct approval for substantial constitutional changes.

The removal of Andrew’s titles comes amid renewed focus on his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Buckingham Palace confirmed last week that Andrew will vacate Royal Lodge, his residence in Windsor, as pressures surrounding his ties to Epstein intensify. Sources within the palace indicated that King Charles III’s decision faced no opposition from family members.

Andrew, who now holds the formal name Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, previously relinquished other titles in October 2023, including the Duke of York, following increasing concerns about his private conduct. Buckingham Palace stated that these “censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him.”

The attention on Andrew’s situation heightened earlier this year when emails released to the public revealed he had maintained contact with Epstein longer than previously disclosed. The controversy surrounding his associations was further fueled by claims made by Virginia Giuffre, whose publishers reiterated allegations after her death last month, asserting that she had sexual encounters with Andrew on three occasions when she was just 17.

This decision marks a pivotal shift within the royal family, reflecting a broader commitment to accountability and transparency following years of public scrutiny. The removal of Andrew’s titles is seen as a necessary step in addressing the implications of his past associations and the monarchy’s reputation.