King Charles Officially Strips Prince Andrew of Royal Highness Title and Princely Dignity

Through a definitive action, the reigning monarch has formally stripped Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his HRH style and his princely title.

The changes were formalized by publishing royal documents under the Great Seal of the Realm, that have been published in the UK's official public record.

The official notice stated: “His Majesty has been pleased by royal instruments under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that the individual in question shall no longer be entitled to hold and enjoy the designation of ‘HRH’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince’.”

Another record affirmed the stripping of the dukedom from the roll of peerage, with immediate effect.

The notice stated: “The king has been pleased by 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 Decision

This move comes after mounting scrutiny over Andrew's connections to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir.

Giuffre alleged that she was assaulted by Andrew after being trafficked by Epstein, claims that Andrew has consistently strenuously denied.

Procedure of Removing Titles

The king utilized his royal prerogative—recognized authorities held by the monarch—following consultation with Cabinet Office officials, instead of through parliamentary means.

Letters patent and warrants are instruments of this prerogative, used to bestow or revoke honors and styles.

Since the Royal Highness designation is granted by such documents, it can be withdrawn through the same instrument.

Further Measures and Support

Following the initial announcement, the lord chancellor was directed to draft the necessary documents for the removal of titles.

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

The government fully supported the king's decision.

Retained Honor

In spite of the stripping of honors, it was confirmed that Mountbatten Windsor will retain his South Atlantic medal, awarded for his role as a Sea King helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.