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In a decisive move, King Charles has formally removed Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his HRH style and his princely title.

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

The entry declared: “His Majesty has been graciously inclined by royal instruments under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that the individual in question shall cease to be entitled to possess the style, title or attribute of ‘HRH’ and the honorific status of ‘Prince of the realm’.”

Another record confirmed the stripping of the Duke of York from the roll of peerage, with immediate effect.

It read: “The king has been pleased to direct by warrant under his signature dated 30 October 2025 to direct his secretary of state to ensure the titleholder to be removed from the peerage roll.”

Context of the Royal Action

This decision comes after mounting scrutiny over the former prince's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, exacerbated by the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir.

The author alleged that she was assaulted by Andrew after being brought by Jeffrey Epstein, allegations that Andrew has consistently strenuously denied.

Procedure of Removing Titles

The king utilized his monarchical powers—accepted rights held by the monarch—after consultation with government advisers, rather than through legislative action.

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

Since the HRH style is granted by such documents, it can be withdrawn through the same instrument.

Additional Measures and Backing

After the initial announcement, the senior legal official was instructed to prepare the necessary documents for the title removals.

The decision also involves Mountbatten Windsor relinquishing his tenancy on his Windsor residence, a thirty-room royal property where he has resided for two decades.

The government fully supported the king's move.

Retained Honor

Despite the loss of titles, it was confirmed that Andrew will retain his South Atlantic medal, awarded for his role as a helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.