Why the Duke of York Has Relinquished His Royal Titles – and What It Means for the Royal Family
In a statement released by the royal household, Prince Andrew has confirmed that he will be giving up his royal titles, such as his dukedom. Here are the details of what has been revealed – and what wasn't.
What Did Andrew Said?
Having already withdrawn as a active member of the monarchy in 2019, the prince has now chosen to “take additional measures” and consent not to use the “title or the awards which have been granted to” him.
But he also employed the announcement to make a point of rejecting – as he has always done – the accusations of sexual impropriety leveled at him; albeit after settling millions to settle the legal claim filed by Virginia Giuffre – an agreement in which he admitted no liability and firmly denied any claims of wrongdoing.
There has been ongoing scrutiny toward the royal institution regarding the allegations against Andrew – particularly after his ill-fated television appearance with Emily Maitlis in 2019. He now claims that his actions are to protect the royal family from additional harm resulting from public speculation.
Did the Monarch Stripped Him of His Honors?
Not at all. And, while this might be viewed as a simple procedure, it is significant in two respects: first, it allows Andrew to publicly claim to have acted honourably in support of the crown. As stated in his statement: “I have decided, consistent with my past, to prioritize my obligations to my family and country first.”
Second, while he has agreed to abstain from using it, the prince keeps his ducal title, along with the titles his earldom and Baron Killyleagh and the esteemed position as Royal Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter. Similar to the royal style honorific, they essentially become inactive.
He remains a prince and eighth in succession to the throne. In theory, he is also still a counsellor of state – and may deputize for the sovereign if he is abroad or ill. However the palace has made clear that, realistically, he would not be called upon to fulfil this role.
Nevertheless, it is significant that Andrew’s statement said the decision was made “following talks with the king”. There seems little doubt that, privately, the palace advocated for the move in the hope of cutting Andrew loose.
Why Was He Not Been Officially Stripped of All of His Titles?
To revoke a dukedom would require legislative action, and would constitute an unprecedented step in full view of the nation – it has not occurred to a high-ranking royal in more than 100 years – that it could result in further harm to the image for the royals.
The prince remains still a prince. At his birth in 1960, he was automatically such as the child of the sovereign. This could only be altered if a letters patent was issued by the reigning monarch.
The entire procedure might ultimately being drawn-out, implying the goal of swiftly resolving the matter – at least for the monarchy's interests – would not necessarily be achieved.
What Are the Implications for the Prince?
Embarrassment, probably more than anything else. The statement signifies an substantial reduction of status he has fought against for years.
The prince and his former spouse, Sarah, continue to reside in Royal Lodge, notwithstanding reported efforts by the king to persuade his brother to relocate of the thirty-room royal residence in the Windsor estate.
Although limited information has been revealed about exactly how much funds the prince has obtained as a result of his position, he remains a person of means. Back in 2007, he was able to secure £15m by selling a home that had been a wedding present from the queen, as an instance.
Why Now?
The continual list of scandals related to the prince has become intolerable for the king and other high-ranking family members.
His friendship with the convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has again under scrutiny following revelations that the prince stated to him “we are in this together” in an email dispatched months after he claimed to have ended communication.
Additionally, there were stories about his association with an alleged intelligence operative and, recently, extracts appeared from the book released after death of Giuffre, who took her own life in April. She alleged the prince “believed that having sex with me was his birthright”.
Moreover, the sovereign is scheduled to undertake a significant trip to meet Pope Leo soon, when he will become the first English monarch after Henry the Eighth split with Rome in 1534 to pray publicly with the pope and head of the Catholic church. He would not desire that trip to be overshadowed by further adverse coverage about Andrew.
What Was the Reaction?
Although he stated Giuffre had been “justified” by the decision, Giuffre’s brother Sky Roberts informed a newspaper that Andrew’s honorary prince title ought to be removed for “genuine accountability” to be achieved.
The republican advocacy organization Republic has also said the move is “insufficient and delayed”, adding: “The prince continues to be accused of sexual offences and misuse of position. He should be stripped of all titles and his military position and should face a legal probe. Refraining from using archaic honors is not a penalty that matches the accusations.”
