The Reasons Prince Andrew Has Relinquished His Official Honors – and the Implications for the Royal Family
In a statement released via Buckingham Palace, Prince Andrew has declared that he will be relinquishing his royal titles, such as the Duke of York. Below are the details of what was announced – and what wasn't.
What Did Andrew Announced?
After previously withdrawn as a active member of the monarchy in 2019, Andrew has currently chosen to “go a step further” and consent not to use the “honor or the honours which have been conferred upon” him.
But he also employed the announcement to make a point of denying – consistent with his past statements – the allegations of sexual impropriety made against him; even though after settling millions to resolve the civil sexual assault case filed by Virginia Giuffre – an agreement in which he accepted no fault and strongly rejected all allegations of improper conduct.
There has been persistent pressure toward the royal institution over the claims against Andrew – particularly after his disastrous television appearance with Emily Maitlis in 2019. He presently states that his actions are to protect the royal family from further damage caused by public speculation.
Did the Monarch Stripped Him of His Titles?
Not at all. And although this might be viewed as a mere formality, it holds importance in two respects: initially, it enables the prince to openly state to have acted honourably in defence of the crown. As stated in his statement: “I have chosen, as I always have, to put my duty to my relatives and country first.”
Second, although he consented not to use it, Andrew retains his ducal title, along with the titles the Earl of Inverness and his barony and the prestigious Garter role as a member of the Order of the Garter. Like the HRH royal style title, they are effectively dormant.
He remains a prince and eighth in succession to the throne. In theory, he remains still a counsellor of state – and may deputize for the sovereign if he is overseas or ill. However royal officials has made clear that, realistically, he would not be asked to fulfil this role.
Nonetheless, it is significant that Andrew’s statement indicated this choice was made “in discussion with the king”. There seems little doubt that, privately, the royal household advocated for this in the aim of distancing the institution from Andrew.
Why Hasn’t He Formally Stripped of His Entire Honors?
To forcibly remove a ducal title would take legislative action, and would represent an unprecedented step in full view of the public – it has not occurred to a high-ranking royal in more than 100 years – that it would likely cause more harm to the image for the royals.
The prince remains still a prince. At his birth in 1960, he became as the son of a monarch. This would only be altered if a royal decree was issued by the reigning monarch.
The entire procedure could end up being protracted, implying the goal of swiftly resolving the issue – particularly for the monarchy's interests – may not be met.
What Are the Implications for Andrew?
Humiliation, likely above all. The announcement represents an effective loss of standing he has resisted for a long time.
The prince and his former spouse, Sarah, still live in their Windsor residence, despite reported efforts by the king to encourage his brother to move out of the thirty-room royal residence in the Windsor estate.
While little light has been shed on the precise amount of money the prince has obtained as a result of his status, he remains a wealthy individual. Back in 2007, he was able to raise £15m by selling a home that had been a wedding present from the queen, as an instance.
Why Now?
The seemingly endless series of controversies involving Andrew has become intolerable for the king and other high-ranking family members.
His association with the jailed sex criminal Jeffrey Epstein is once again under scrutiny following revelations that the prince stated to him “we share this situation” in a message sent three months subsequent to his assertion to have ended communication.
There have also been reports about his association with an alleged intelligence operative and, recently, extracts were published from the book released after death of Giuffre, who took her own life in April. She claimed Andrew “believed that engaging sexually with her was his entitlement”.
Moreover, the king is due to make a historic visit to see the pontiff next week, when he will become the first English monarch after Henry the Eighth broke from the Catholic Church in 1534 to worship openly with the Holy Father and leader of Catholicism. He would not desire that trip to be marred by further adverse coverage about Andrew.
What Was the Response?
Although he stated Giuffre had been “vindicated” by the move, her sibling Sky Roberts informed the Times that Andrew’s honorary prince title should be revoked for “genuine accountability” to be achieved.
The anti-monarchist advocacy organization Republic has additionally stated the action is “too little, too late”, adding: “The prince continues to be facing allegations of sexual offences and abuse of office. He ought to be stripped of every honor and his navy rank and should undergo a criminal investigation. Not using archaic honors is not a punishment that fits the offences.”
