The Reasons the Duke of York Has Relinquished His Royal Titles – and the Implications for the Monarchy
In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, the king's brother has declared he is giving up his royal titles, including the Duke of York. Below is an overview of what has been announced – and what remains unchanged.
What Has the Prince Announced?
Having already withdrawn as a active member of the monarchy in 2019, Andrew has currently chosen to “go a step further” and agree not to use the “title or the awards which have been conferred upon” him.
However, he used the statement to make a point of denying – consistent with his past statements – the allegations of sexual impropriety leveled at him; even though having paid out millions to settle the legal claim brought by Virginia Giuffre – a settlement in which he admitted no liability and strongly rejected any claims of improper conduct.
There has been persistent pressure toward the royal institution over the claims against Andrew – particularly after his disastrous Newsnight interview with Emily Maitlis in 2019. He now claims he is acting to protect his relatives from additional harm caused by media scrutiny.
Did the Monarch Stripped Him of His Titles?
No. And although this could be dismissed as a mere formality, it holds importance in two respects: first, it allows Andrew to publicly claim to have acted honourably in defence of the monarchy. As he said in his statement: “I have decided, consistent with my past, to prioritize my obligations to my family and the nation first.”
Second, while he has agreed to abstain from using it, the prince keeps the dukedom, along with the titles his earldom and his barony and the esteemed Garter role as Royal Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter. Like the HRH royal style title, they are effectively inactive.
He remains royalty and eighth in succession to the throne. In theory, he is also a potential stand-in for the monarch – and can stand in for the sovereign if he is overseas or ill. However royal officials has made clear that, in practice, he will not be called upon to perform these duties.
Nonetheless, it is telling that Andrew’s statement said the decision was made “following talks with the monarch”. It appears highly likely that, privately, the royal household advocated for this in the hope of cutting Andrew loose.
Why Hasn’t He Formally Stripped of All of His Titles?
To revoke a ducal title would take legislative action, and would constitute such a historic move publicly before the public – it has not occurred to a senior royal in over a century – that it could result in further harm to the image for the monarchy.
The prince remains a royal by birth. At his birth in 1960, he became such as the son of a monarch. This could only be changed if a letters patent was enacted by the reigning monarch.
The whole process might ultimately being drawn-out, meaning the objective of quickly addressing the issue – particularly for the royal family’s purposes – would not necessarily be achieved.
What Are the Implications for Andrew?
Embarrassment, probably more than anything else. The statement signifies an substantial reduction of standing he has resisted for a long time.
The prince and his former spouse, Sarah, still live in their Windsor residence, notwithstanding reported efforts by his brother to persuade Andrew to relocate of the 30-room royal residence in Windsor Great Park.
While little light has been shed on the precise amount of money Andrew has received as a result of his position, he remains a wealthy individual. In 2007, he managed to raise £15m by selling a property that had been a gift from his mother, as an instance.
What Prompted This?
The seemingly endless series of controversies related to the prince has become unacceptable for the king and other senior royals.
His association with the convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is once again in the headlines following revelations Andrew had told him “we are in this together” in an email dispatched months after he claimed to have ceased contact.
There have also been reports about his association with an alleged intelligence operative and, recently, excerpts appeared from the book released after death of Giuffre, who died by suicide in April. She claimed Andrew “thought that having sex with me was his entitlement”.
Furthermore, the sovereign is scheduled to undertake a significant trip to see the pontiff soon, when he will become the initial British king after Henry the Eighth split with Rome in 1534 to worship openly with the Holy Father and leader of Catholicism. He would not desire that visit to be marred by more negative headlines about his brother.
What Was the Response?
While he said Giuffre had been “justified” by the decision, Giuffre’s brother Sky Roberts has told a newspaper that Andrew’s honorary prince title should be revoked for “true justice” to be achieved.
The anti-monarchist campaign group Republic has also said the action is “insufficient and delayed”, adding: “Andrew remains accused of sexual misconduct and misuse of position. He ought to be divested of every honor and his military position and should undergo a criminal investigation. Refraining from using archaic honors is not a punishment that fits the offences.”
