Why the Duke of York Has Relinquished His Official Honors – and What It Means for the Royal Family
Through a statement released by Buckingham Palace, the king's brother has confirmed that he will be giving up his official honors, including the Duke of York. Here are the details of what was announced – and what wasn't.
What Has Andrew Said?
Having already stepped down as a active member of the monarchy in 2019, the prince has currently decided to “take additional measures” and agree to refrain from using the “honor or the honours which have been granted to” him.
But he also used the statement to emphatically rejecting – as he has always done – the allegations of misconduct leveled at him; even though after settling millions to resolve the legal claim filed by Virginia Giuffre – an agreement in which he accepted no fault and strongly rejected all allegations of wrongdoing.
There has been persistent pressure on the monarchy over the allegations against Andrew – especially since his ill-fated television appearance with Emily Maitlis in 2019. He now claims that his actions are to safeguard his relatives from further damage caused by media scrutiny.
Has the King Removed Him of His Honors?
No. And although this might be viewed as a mere formality, it is significant in multiple ways: first, it enables the prince to publicly claim to have acted honourably in support of the crown. As stated in his announcement: “I have decided, consistent with my past, to prioritize my obligations to my family and the nation first.”
Additionally, although he consented not to use it, the prince keeps his ducal title, along with the honors his earldom and Baron Killyleagh and the prestigious Garter role as a member of the Order of the Garter. Like the HRH His Royal Highness honorific, they are effectively inactive.
He continues to be royalty and eighth in succession to the throne. Theoretically, he is also still a counsellor of state – and may deputize for the king if he is abroad or unwell. Although royal officials has indicated that, realistically, he will not be called upon to fulfil this role.
Nonetheless, it is significant that the prince's announcement said this choice was made “in discussion with the king”. It appears little doubt that, privately, the royal household pushed for this in the hope of cutting Andrew loose.
Why Hasn’t He Been Officially Stripped of All of His Titles?
To revoke a ducal title would require an act of parliament, and would represent such a historic move in full view of the nation – it has not happened to a high-ranking royal in over a century – that it would likely result in further reputational damage for the royals.
The prince remains still a prince. When he was born 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, meaning the objective of swiftly resolving the matter – at least for the monarchy's interests – would not necessarily be achieved.
What Are the Implications for Andrew?
Embarrassment, probably more than anything else. The announcement signifies an substantial reduction of status he has fought against for years.
He and his ex-wife, Sarah, continue to reside in their Windsor residence, despite reported efforts by his brother to encourage Andrew to relocate of the thirty-room Crown Estate property in Windsor Great Park.
Although limited information has been revealed about exactly how much funds the prince has obtained as a result of his position, he remains a wealthy individual. Back in 2007, he managed to secure £15m by selling a home that had been a wedding present from the queen, as an instance.
Why Now?
The continual series of controversies related to the prince has become intolerable for the king and other high-ranking family members.
His friendship with the jailed child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has again under scrutiny following revelations Andrew had told him “we are in this together” in a message sent three months after he claimed to have ceased contact.
There have also been stories about his association with a suspected intelligence operative and, recently, extracts were published from the book released after death of Giuffre, who died by suicide in April. She alleged the prince “thought that having sex with me was his birthright”.
Moreover, the sovereign is scheduled to make a historic visit to see the pontiff next week, during which he will be the first English monarch since Henry VIII split with Rome in 1534 to pray publicly with the pope and head of the Catholic church. He will not have wanted that trip to be marred by more negative headlines about Andrew.
What Has Been the Reaction?
While he said his sister had been “vindicated” by the decision, Giuffre’s brother Sky Roberts has told a newspaper that the prince's style ought to be removed for “true justice” to be done.
The anti-monarchist campaign group Republic has also said the action is “insufficient and delayed”, adding: “The prince continues to be facing allegations of sexual offences and misuse of position. He ought to be divested of every honor and his navy rank and should face a legal probe. Not using archaic honors is not a punishment that fits the offences.”
