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Through a definitive move, the reigning monarch has formally removed Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his Royal Highness attribute and his title of prince.

These alterations were made official by publishing royal documents under the official state seal, that have been published in the UK's official public record.

The official notice declared: “The king has been pleased by royal instruments under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall no longer be entitled to hold and enjoy the style, title or attribute of ‘Royal Highness’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince’.”

Another record affirmed the stripping of the Duke of York from the peerage list, with immediate effect.

It read: “The king has been pleased by warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to instruct his government minister to ensure the Duke of York to be removed from the roll of the peerage.”

Background of the Decision

This decision follows mounting controversy over Andrew's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of a memoir by Virginia Giuffre.

The author alleged that she was assaulted by the former prince after being trafficked by Epstein, claims that Mountbatten Windsor has consistently strenuously denied.

Mechanism of Title Removal

Charles utilized his monarchical powers—recognized authorities held by the sovereign—following discussions with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through legislative action.

Letters patent and royal warrants are instruments of this authority, used to bestow or remove honors and styles.

Because the Royal Highness designation is conferred by letters patent, it can be withdrawn through the same process.

Additional Measures and Support

Following the palace statement, the senior legal official was directed to draft the necessary documents for the removal of titles.

The decision also includes Andrew giving up his tenancy on his Windsor residence, a 30-room Crown Estate property where he has resided for two decades.

The government endorsed the king's decision.

Exception

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