The Reasons Prince Andrew Has Relinquished His Official Titles – and the Implications for the Monarchy
In a announcement released by the royal household, the king's brother has declared he is giving up his official honors, such as his dukedom. Here are the details of what was revealed – and what wasn't.
What Did Andrew Announced?
Having already withdrawn as a working royal in 2019, Andrew has currently decided to “take additional measures” and agree not to use the “title or the awards which have been granted to” him.
But he also used the statement to make a point of rejecting – as he has always done – the allegations of misconduct made against him; even though after settling a substantial sum to settle the legal claim filed by Virginia Giuffre – a settlement in which he admitted no liability and strongly rejected any claims of improper conduct.
There has existed ongoing scrutiny on the monarchy regarding the allegations against Andrew – especially since his disastrous television appearance with Emily Maitlis in 2019. He now claims that his actions are to protect the royal family from additional harm caused by media scrutiny.
Has the King Stripped Him of His Titles?
Not at all. And although this could be dismissed as a mere formality, it holds importance in multiple ways: first, it enables the prince to publicly claim to have acted honourably in defence of the crown. As stated in his statement: “I have decided, as I always have, to prioritize my obligations to my relatives and the nation first.”
Additionally, although he consented not to use it, Andrew retains his ducal title, along with the titles the Earl of Inverness and Baron Killyleagh and the prestigious position as Royal Knight Companion of the prestigious order. Like the HRH royal style honorific, they essentially become dormant.
He remains royalty and eighth in the line of succession. Theoretically, he remains still a counsellor of state – and can stand in for the sovereign should he be overseas or unwell. Although royal officials has indicated that, realistically, he will not be called upon to fulfil this role.
Nevertheless, it is telling that Andrew’s statement indicated this choice was made “in discussion with the monarch”. It appears little doubt that, privately, the palace pushed for this in the hope of distancing the institution from Andrew.
Why Was He Not Been Officially Stripped of All of His Titles?
To revoke a ducal title would take legislative action, and would represent such a historic move in full view of the public – it has not occurred to a senior royal in over a century – that it could cause more reputational damage for the monarchy.
Andrew is also a royal by birth. When he was born in 1960, he became as the child of the sovereign. This would only be altered if a royal decree was enacted by the king.
The entire procedure could end up being protracted, meaning the goal of swiftly resolving the issue – particularly for the monarchy's interests – would not necessarily be achieved.
What Are the Implications for Andrew?
Embarrassment, likely above all. The announcement represents an substantial reduction of status he has resisted for years.
The prince and his former spouse, Sarah, still live in Royal Lodge, despite reported efforts by the king to encourage his brother to relocate of the 30-room royal residence in Windsor Great Park.
While little light has been shed on exactly how much money the prince has obtained due to his position, he continues to be a wealthy individual. Back in 2007, he managed to secure £15m from the sale of a home that had been a wedding present from his mother, as an instance.
Why Now?
The continual series of controversies involving Andrew has become intolerable for the king and other senior royals.
His association with the jailed sex criminal Jeffrey Epstein is once again in the headlines after it emerged that the prince stated to him “we are in this together” in a message sent three months subsequent to his assertion to have ceased contact.
Additionally, there were reports about his connections with an alleged intelligence operative and, this week, extracts were published from the posthumous memoir of Giuffre, who took her own life in April. She alleged the prince “believed that having sex with me was his entitlement”.
Moreover, the sovereign is due to make a historic visit to meet Pope Leo next week, when he will become the initial British king since Henry VIII broke from the Catholic Church in 1534 to worship openly with the pope and head of the Catholic church. He would not desire that visit to be overshadowed by more negative headlines about Andrew.
What Was the Response?
While he said Giuffre had been “justified” by the move, her sibling Sky Roberts has told the Times that the prince's style ought to be removed for “true justice” to be achieved.
The anti-monarchist campaign group Republic has additionally stated the move is “too little, too late”, noting: “Andrew remains accused of sexual misconduct and misuse of position. He ought to be stripped of every honor and his navy rank and should face a legal probe. Refraining from using archaic honors is not a punishment that fits the offences.”
